David Norris (Independent)

We are entitled to know the nature of the Attorney General's advice. I presume this advice was provided and that we were not misled further. If it was given, what was the nature of it and was it wrong? In my opinion, questions arise regarding the Attorney General's credibility in this matter.

On another matter, we should have another debate on the media. We are currently discussing the Defamation Bill, which is a most interesting Bill. The Minister has shown a degree of flexibility in response to pressure from this side of the House. However, today we received disturbing news about the arrest of a journalist. That is an extremely serious matter. I am probably the only Member of the House who has criticised the Government for conceding to the press barons. I am a member of the National Union of Journalists trade union. Arresting journalists is a serious issue. There must be an important reason for it.

Yesterday, I criticised a narrowness on the part of the some of the church authorities, having been provoked by Senator Mansergh. Today, I pay tribute to the Roman Catholic hierarchy and ask the Leader to arrange a debate on the subject referred to by the hierarchy in its excellent pastoral, which was launched in the last few days, on the dangers of alcoholism. There are very powerful lobbies involved. It is clear that the Government is in the pockets of property speculators and pub owners. The vintners are probably the most effective lobby in this area. Society is being undermined. Two bishops, including the Archbishop of Dublin, Dr. Martin, launched the church's campaign at the statue of Fr. Matthew in O'Connell Street. I believe we need another person like Fr. Matthew to lead a campaign against the consumption of drink. Irish culture has been made synonymous with drink and that is an insult to the Irish people.