This week's quotes from around the world
There is nothing more hypocritical than seeking to support an independent pay determination system that has served successive governments for 40 years and then walk away from it when a populist argument arises that suits one's case.- Taoiseach-elect Brian Cowen saying it would be "hypocritical" not to accept the substantial pay increases awarded to Cabinet members by an independent review body.
He enjoyed every human contact, whether it was a hand fleetingly grasped on a canvass, an assistant murmuring something before a meeting or an elderly constituent confiding a problem.- Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny paying tribute to Bertie Ahern in the Dáil.
At the end of the day people have to decide who they think would be not only the best president, which is the most important question, but who would be the better candidate against Senator McCain.- Democratic Party presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton, whose victory in the Pennsylvania primary keeps her in the race.
Why can't I just eat my waffle?- Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton's Democratic Party rival, as he was peppered with questions by journalists while eating breakfast in a Pennsylvania diner.
One thing is certain: the world has consumed more than it has produced.- United Nations secretary-general Ban Ki-moon urging an increase in the production of food to remedy shortages around the globe.
The problem is that Israel and the United States refuse to meet with these people, who must be involved.- Jimmy Carter, former US president, after meeting Hamas leaders to discuss peace in the Middle East.
I have always reacted negatively to those who with their snotty noses and erotic fantasies prowl into others' lives.- Russian president Vladimir Putin, addressing rumours that he has secretly divorced and plans to remarry.
Dere was somefing minging in de State of Denmark.- From writer Martin Baum's "updated" edition of Shakespeare's plays, which he has overhauled for the "Ali G" generation.