John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

In regard to the Morris tribunal, another matter to which Senator Brian Hayes referred, it is perhaps somewhat excessive to say the that ruling is absurd. Nevertheless, I take the point that the House has an obligation to protect the privilege of its Members in regard to papers and to communications made to them in confidence. As the Cathaoirleach will be aware from his chairmanship of the Committee on Procedure and Privileges, we have already affirmed that on not one but two occasions. I am confident that affirmation will be successful if, indeed, contested in the courts.