Ann Ormonde (Fianna Fail)

I beg your pardon. I appreciate that point. Everybody knows we try to legislate and to behave well in society. Is it fair that a newspaper headline will destroy our reputation on some small issue and that a spin is put on it? Will the press council correct that article? It is all very fine in the case of a recent article involving a millionaire as he can pursue it all the way. If it happens to the man in the street he goes to the ombudsman to have his case searched and to the press council which makes the decision on whether a code of standards will be applied. I want those standards spelled out because standards can vary and can be interpreted differently.

In regard to the composition of the press council, seven members will be independent and six will be from the press. I am concerned about the quorum. If the members travel from all over the country how many should be present at a meeting?

Following what I read in yesterday's newspaper, I am concerned. Last week I was convinced this was a great idea. What was printed in yesterday's newspaper was an insult and destroys the good work the Minister is trying to do. While I am sure many journalists are delighted the Minister is introducing this legislation, they flaunted it yesterday when they published that article.