Seanad debates
Wednesday, 10 December 2003
Report on Dublin and Monaghan Bombings: Motion. - Defamation: Statements.
The Government's programme links the three issues of privacy, public protection in the form of a press council and defamation law. The three issues are inter-related. I am more confident speaking to a political house than to other bodies in saying that in the world of realpolitik to engage in a bold adventure in one direction without being conscious of the need for balance would be politically naive. For me to do so would be naive if I were a backbencher, let alone a Minister. The three issues are connected and people should not imagine they can dine à la carte at a table on which they are set out. The interrelationship is set out in the programme for Government and I stand behind that sense of realism. I am open-minded on the exact substance and means of delivery of reform in each of the three areas.
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