Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Brian Hayes raised the matter of a State appeal to the recent decision of the High Court in the case of a man convicted of drug trafficking. We were all shocked at the result of that appeal. I will endeavour to establish if an appeal is to be made. The Senator rightly pointed out that when people involved in trafficking drugs or young people see the goods being confiscated they know something real is happening.

Senator Hayes also said that one Minister dealt with three Adjournment Matters on consecutive days last week. I suggest that the matter could be raised in tomorrow's meeting of the Committee on Procedure and Privileges. The same will often happen in the Dáil. I agree that a Minister of the relevant Department dealing with the Adjournment Matter is more meaningful.

Senator Norris asked about the civil registration Bill. I will endeavour to establish when that will be brought before the House. He asked for a debate on the media and the Press Council and that was echoed by Senator Ryan. Both said they were affronted by recent media appearances. Nobody was forced to make themselves available to the media. The person made her own choice to do so; whether we think it is wise or not is another matter. Senator Ryan would have a lot to say if someone was muzzled. Because it is an interim report we were advised to use that terminology.

Senator Ulick Burke raised the matter of the drugs policy that was announced by private schools. I understand it to be voluntary; it is certainly not mandatory. It is an issue that will be much debated. The Fianna Fáil Senators debated it at our meeting today. There is room for full discussion on this issue and I hope we can get clarification on it.