Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)

Senator Norris's tone and volume are in direct proportion to the lack of substance in the point he makes. On this occasion he was quite excitable talking about something which he fundamentally misunderstands.

When Ireland is brought before the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg, as the Senator knows, the purpose is to say an Irish law is inconsistent with the European Convention on Human Rights. The Irish legal team argues that we are entitled to make a particular law, our membership of the Council of Europe and adherence to the convention notwithstanding. It does not mean that an argument made in Strasbourg that something is lawful for Ireland to do means it is therefore the best law and an Irish Parliament cannot change it. That is an absurd logical leap and if the Senator reflects on it, he will save himself an increase in blood pressure.