Brian Hayes (Fine Gael)

This same gentleman wanted to go man to man with a Deputy from my party but funked a debate with the leader of the Labour Party. If this is the start of the election campaign, we need a better response from the Government. It should not hide from debating the important issues of the day with the Opposition nor should it bully and dictate to the national broadcaster, which has a duty to make sure all voices are heard.

I endorse the comments made by Senator Norris yesterday on the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. He called for a debate in which the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform could explain to us the rationale and the openness of the decisions it makes.

A further issue which has arisen with regard to the Refugee Appeals Tribunal is the appointment of solicitors and barristers to review cases. These people are selected on the principle that it is a handy nixer. There is no transparency when it comes to the Refugee Appeals Tribunal or accountability for the selection of people who determine the outcome of important appeals. The only condition is that one must be a member or a former member of Government parties. We need a debate on that issue and I want it to be held as soon as possible.