Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)

I join Senator Harris in congratulating the Cathaoirleach on his impartiality in the Chair. I welcome and note the metanoia of the director general of RTE, Cathal Goan, and Mr. Mulholland yesterday on their conversion to the need for impartiality, independence and balance. The article in this morning's edition of The Irish Times gives Senator Harris his answer. A serious debate on the independence of our national broadcasting station is needed. I ask the Leader to invite the Minister responsible to the House for such a debate because for too long certain media commentators have been setting agendas and trying to score political points. Perhaps Members opposite should consider the stable from which they come and the way in which they pillory certain members of my party? I will defend Senator Regan and challenge Senator Harris to a debate on Senator Regan's integrity any place any time.

I join the Leader of Fine Gael Party in asking for a debate——