"We are all saddened but unfortunately we have to condemn, not condone. The evidence is overwhelming as far as I am concerned. This case is now finished." -

The Minister for Tourism and Sport, Dr Jim McDaid, after the Court of Arbitration for Sport rejected Michelle de Bruin's appeal against a four-year ban imposed by swimming's governing body, FINA.

"It's a sad day for Irish sport. I'm sorry that the pleasure and joy some people got from Michelle's successes has been overshadowed now, but sport has to be protected." -

Kay Guy who, with her husband Al, carried out the fateful drug test at de Bruin's home in January 1998.

"I am proud of what I have achieved and assure those who have supported me and believe in me that my victories at Atlanta and in Seville are not hollow and were achieved without the use of any illegal performance-enhancing substance. I am saddened that my career has ended in this way, but now Erik and I must look to the future." -

Michelle de Bruin speaking about her ban.

"The poor women of Ireland must be bored out of their minds watching football, cricket and snooker on television. However, women tell me that quite a lot of them enjoy snooker and have a particular affinity for studying the backsides of some of the world's famous snooker players." -

Fine Gael's Austin Deasy loses the women's vote.

"It's been like a mole on my face, I won't know what it's like to be without it until I have the damned thing surgically removed." -

Joe Bugner, announcing his retirement from boxing after a 32-year career.