Spouting teapot tales

Senator David Norris imparted the following information to colleagues in the Upper House on Wednesday: "Anybody can go into the…

Senator David Norris imparted the following information to colleagues in the Upper House on Wednesday: "Anybody can go into the Ritz, but there is a problem once you get in. I was there not too long ago and if they think you have an Irish accent, they give you a teapot with a thick spout so that the tea dribbles all over the place. You have to be very careful and indicate you are Irish and that you would know a thick teapot when you see it . . ."

AN CATHAOIRLEACH: "Senator Norris, this is very interesting, but it is not relevant to the order of business."

SENATOR NORRIS: ". . . and would insist on an English teapot."

SENATOR PASCAL MOONEY: "I thought for a moment Senator Norris was going to remind us about the famous silver teapot that was presented one time. If it is still in working order, perhaps it could be used in the Ritz for Irish guests. That would definitely be an Irish teapot."