Paschal Mooney (Fianna Fail)

I endorse all that has been said about the Stardust tragedy and, in particular, I echo the remarks of Senator O'Meara about the two RTE programmes. At a time when public service broadcasting is coming under yet another round of criticism this was a perfect example of why we should continue to support such broadcasting.

I wish to draw the attention of the Leader of the House to recent remarks by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform at an RTE symposium on public service broadcasting. I have to confess that the remarks were received with some concern because, after all, the Minister is responsible for maintaining law and order in the State. I have enormous respect and admiration for Deputy McDowell but his comments last week, which were widely reported, must be seen in the context of the forthcoming broadcasting Bill, the heads of which are currently under discussion. The Bill should be published before the Easter recess and, therefore, I ask the Leader to ensure it will come before this House to allow for a measured debate not only on the legislation but also on public service broadcasting generally.

I am also seeking a debate on the outcome of the elections in Palestine, including the occupied territories. The debate should include the impact of Hamas on wider regional issues, namely, the relationship between the European Union and Palestine and Israel, as well as the relationship between Ireland and Palestine as a result of the elections. This House has a long tradition of holding good debates on Middle East matters, so I ask the Leader to arrange for such a debate in the next few weeks.