Paul Gogarty (Dublin Mid West, Green Party)

I ask that the House be adjourned under the terms of Standing Order 31 to debate the following matter of urgent national importance, namely, the vindictive reporting of the circumstances surrounding the death of the former Deputy, Liam Lawlor, by certain sections of the media; the lack of humanity and compassion shown to his family; the continuing half-hearted apologies, even after yesterday's discussion, and woefully inadequate excuses of inaccuracy in the context of coverage that had no relevance to the public interest either way; the need for this House to disassociate itself from such gutter "scumbag" journalism; and the urgent need for reform of the libel laws that the media is requesting, along with the introduction of legislation creating a strong and independent press council with real teeth and meaningful penalties so our proud tradition of responsible media coverage in general can be maintained.

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