Kathleen O'Meara (Labour)

On the last matter raised by Senator Norris, as a member of the NUJ and somebody who knew Dick Walsh well in my earlier career, I, too, note his passing. In relation to freedom of information, I read in his own newspaper, The Irish Times, this morning that he had intended to lend his weight to the NUJ campaign of opposition to the Government's proposals. In that regard, the announcement by the Leader this morning is very welcome.

As somebody who engaged in the battle on the floor of the House, I hope this signals a substantial change of mind on the part of the Government in terms of its policy on freedom of information. I also hope there will be a substantial change of heart next week, reflected in the amendments the Government will bring forward, and that a Minister from the relevant Department will come into the House to debate them. I further hope the debate will reflect that at the Joint Committee on Finance and the Public Service today and, in particular, the recommendations of the Information Commissioner.