David Norris (Independent)

I can reassure you, a Chathaoirligh, that this matter is not before the courts but you are right, it should be. The practices of the Environmental Protection Agency, which have been held up to serious criticism, should be examined. There is a continuing hazard and this matter should be reopened, if not here in the Oireachtas then in the courts. I agree with the Cathaoirleach on this and thank him for the suggestion.

I also wish to raise the issue of this country's approach to refugees. There is legislation planned to deal with refugees and the agency responsible for them but can the Leader tell the House when it will come before us? I am greatly worried because an individual, about whose activities concerns were raised in court in Ireland, is purported to have his position confirmed, named and stated in this legislation, which is inappropriate.

There are many concerns about this legislation and I wish to put a case on the record of this House that was brought to my attention in recent weeks. A young Iranian man is in this country at the moment; he left Iran after an investigation, having openly acknowledged a sexual relationship with his male partner. He is being served in Ireland with a deportation order. What kind of people run these services? Are they unaware that this man will be butchered on his return to Iran? If so they are unique because everyone else knows.