Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

What we have discussed most of this afternoon is an abuse of power at its most extreme. I cannot understand how any human being, with a modicum of sensibility, could deliberately inflict such hurt and torture on a vulnerable family. Is the media saying it has different standards from those it demands from people, particularly those in public life? If it claims it is not exercising different standards, the editor of the Sunday Independent must seriously consider his position. If he does not, the credibility of the media at large will be at stake. Any Minister who abused power to the extent the Sunday Independent has, would have his or her resignation demanded immediately.

On many occasions I have raised questions about the media. The NUJ once wrote to the Committee on Procedure and Privileges complaining about me. The letter, in turn, had to be circulated to every member. Unfortunately for the NUJ, it got it wrong and apologised. If the NUJ is so sensitive about comments made in the Chamber, which were never going to be published, how does it feel about the particular case we are discussing? If we do not have resignations, then all the apologies are empty.