David Norris (Independent)

I do not agree with Senator Brian Hayes's comments on the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform. The case in Clonmel is tragic and, as Senator Mansergh suggested, an automatic inquiry should be held into such circumstances. I am not sure it would have been appropriate for the Minister to cite specific cases. We are often told it is not appropriate to name people in this House as it may rehash their grief. As long as the instrument is available, and is effectively used, it did not matter a damn in this instance where it was announced. There are other far more serious circumstances in which the House is bypassed.

The tragic situation in Zimbabwe has been raised several times in the past two weeks. We heard of nuns trying to look after babies with AIDS who had been thrown out onto the street. However, there is some good news. I met with Mr. Roy Bennett some 18 months ago. His case was raised by me and some other Senators, including Senator Ross who raised it on the Adjournment and kindly shared time with me. Yesterday I heard that Mr. Bennett had been released from prison, partly as a result of efforts of people in this House. That is something positive on which to end the term.

I look forward to the introduction of legislation in the autumn governing the rights of workers coming to this county. I hope amendments will be accepted in this House. Based on what we know at the moment it is not generous legislation. In America they ask for the huddled masses and the poor. We ask the developing world for its doctors, lawyers and graduates. We ask for all its talented people and if they are really good we will let them stay for five years. If we need them for any more exploitation they can remain for another period and then we will kick them out when we have bled them dry. That is not the correct way to approach this situation.