Jerry Buttimer (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)

I do not envy the Minister of State his task. I have never seen so many e-mails coming in. We must differentiate between the keyboard warriors who, in some cases, border on anarchism and those who are genuinely creative and passionate about this. That is important for those who are creative or into gaming. The Minister knows well we are trying to be the hub for gaming in the western world and it is important.

I have some simple and basic questions. What are the implications for the protection of individual freedom? Can the Minister of State reassure the House that the ISPs will not track and demonise the ordinary citizen who is not involved in the copyright cartel, nor out to make anything from this? I am reassured by his remarks in regard to the balancing act. However, some people I have been talking to and liaising with, who have given me their real names and engaged with me in a proper manner, have expressed worry that this statutory instrument is vague, perhaps leaving the courts with too much of a margin for discretion. Is it the case that we are jumping through hoops for big business, which I accept also has rights, at the expense of the small person?

The Minister of State's opening speech to the House was welcome. I join Deputy Keating who said we should tell this story better. I compliment the Minister of State. He has been available, has met and spoken to, not only Members, but other people in the House and in the wider community. The last thing we need is to lose the culture of creativity and innovation, to which the Minister of State referred. I know that is not his modus operandi. However, it is important that we allay fears.

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