David Norris (Independent)

I am not the only one who is interested in this matter and neither am I a single issue person. This is a human rights matter which has been taken on by both Government and Opposition Senators. It is important to note that yet again a rebuke was delivered to the Oireachtas by a judge, who in this case indicated that we should have dealt with this a long time ago. We should do so. I have proposed a Bill, which has been revised, and I will propose it in the next session.

When I see that the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy Michael McDowell, is considering examining the issues, my feelings are like those of the Old Testament prophet who said, "How long, O Lord, how long?" He is a slow learner. For how long must these matters be examined? The Minister should get up and do something.