David Norris (Independent)

The Cathaoirleach is correct. However, I ask for the removal of the Ethics in Public Office (Amendment) Bill. Consider what was cobbled together with the gene pool and people of like mind. There is a whiff off them that would blind almighty God and they do not have any problems about ethics. This Bill should be withdrawn until the Government understands what is meant by "ethics".

I propose a change to the Order of Business so the House can take No. 42, which states:

That Seanad Éireann, in the light of further disclosures about 'CIA Rendition Flights' to torture destinations and the involvement in these practises as victims of women and children, condemns such activities in the most unequivocal manner; and calls for the establishment of an International War Crimes tribunal to determine the guilt or innocence of the most senior US and British personnel.

Women and children are now rendered to Somalia to be tortured and we are clearly implicated in this. I refer to the recent air display by some of these bombers in Galway and the statement of Major Samantha Weeks, one of the commanding officers. She stated Ireland has taken a stand with the United States for freedom, they want to spread goodwill with Ireland and other European allies, Ireland supports the United States in the war on terror and the Irish people are on the same page when it comes to freedom, human rights and democracy. We are not and the message should go out from this House that we do not support torture, mass civilian bombings or the use of chemical weapons or weapons of mass destruction. Nor do we wish to subvert conventions like President Bush or Mr. Blair. Thank God Mr. Blair is gone.