Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I agree with the Deputy. It is vital, as we come to debate an issue that has been extremely divisive in our community over many years, that people are treated with respect on all sides. I know there are very strongly held views on all sides about this. I know it is an issue in respect of which people find it hard at times to be restrained. However, if we are to make mature decisions on this, the public must be given an opportunity to hear the arguments on both sides. It is right that the House should appeal for such an approach because, otherwise, people will be branded into one area or camp or another and will not have a chance to sift through what are genuine arguments that must be reconciled in this debate. I therefore agree with the Deputy that we need to find a way for people to have their voices heard without being shouted down.

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