Kathleen O'Meara (Labour)

I support the calls for a debate on the report of the Morris tribunal which is extremely important. It is significant that the chairman of the tribunal noted that the first report was not debated by the Houses of the Oireachtas, so it is important we hold such a debate. Our starting point must be the clear case for the establishment of an ombudsman with full powers, including the ability to hold the Garda Síochána accountable. I congratulate the chairman of the tribunal on his work.

I ask the Leader to request the Minister for Foreign Affairs to report to this House on the issue of the three year old Irish citizen, Tristan Dowse, who is currently in an orphanage in Jakarta, and has no independent legal representation. The Minister should specifically be asked why this boy has no independent legal representation, when clearly that is what is required to ensure his full rights, particularly as an Irish citizen, are upheld. I would like the Leader to respond to that issue.

I support my colleague, Senator Ryan, on the issue of the Interpretation Bill. Let us remove it from the Order Paper and any doubt as to where the responsibility for the delay lies.