David Norris (Independent)

I agree with Senator Ó Murchú on the need for an independent inquiry into the assassination of Pat Finucane. It is dreadful when such murders occur but even more dreadful when a government agency of some description is suspected of involvement. Contrary to Lord Denning's view, appalling vistas must be confronted rather than avoided because if they are avoided they will continue to occur. I hate the idea of governments being involved in such crimes but, regrettably, it is the case all over the world. If it emerges that the British are implicated then so be it. There must be an independent inquiry.

The Supreme Court judgment, mentioned by Senator Brian Hayes, is very important but we should not just approach the issue as a reason for tightening up loopholes. We should look at the whole question of the age of consent and the nature of consent itself. There have been cases involving women teachers——