Maurice Hayes (Independent)

I should have thought it was fairly clear why Members cannot be as free as the media to discuss the case the Cathaoirleach does not wish them to discuss. Theoretically, Members might end up being judge and jury in the case in question and they cannot prejudice that position.

I support Senator Ryan's call for a debate on housing. Members have called for such a debate for some time, particularly with regard to social housing and in respect of people such as gardaí, teachers, nurses and street sweepers who are needed to run a city but who can no longer afford to live in this city. This will become a major problem.

Moreover, in respect of a point raised by Senator Ryan, I also deplore the use of corporate muscle to frighten off people and to smother criticism. Moreover, if Members follow the lines proposed in the Privacy Bill, they will make it even easier for rich people and corporate people to prevent others from complaining about them or investigating them.