Margaret Cox (Fianna Fail)

For the manner in which we have dealt with issues under the Tánaiste's portfolio, he owes it to the House to discuss this serious matter. I am not calling, as Senator Norris stated yesterday, for a debate on mandatory sentencing or any particular solution. I am just calling for a debate.

Some women believe the message sent by the judge two weeks ago means they cannot report rapes to the police or, if they do, their cases will be brought to court where, due to circumstances we do not understand, there is a likelihood that the defendants will be released free as birds to walk the same streets as them or to communicate with them. That is not good enough.

I thank the Leader for her support on this issue. If the Tánaiste does not see fit to accept our invitation to debate this issue next week in whatever format is acceptable — I understand he cannot discuss individual cases — there must be a forum in which to debate it. I ask the Tánaiste to discuss it next week before our Easter recess.