Fiona O'Malley (Progressive Democrats)

I also support the comments that Senator Ó Murchú made earlier today on the Morris tribunal. Oireachtas Members have a privileged position where we get information from people and we are asked to do things about it. I regret the comments that were made about the honourable step taken by former Deputy Jim Higgins and Deputy Howlin. We need to have a debate in both Houses about the status of Members of the Houses and what is expected of them when they receive information like that. I heard Deputy Howlin speak yesterday about it, and he was deeply confused as to what was expected of him. Most people would agree that he did the honourable thing in speaking quietly to the Minister.

The level of inquiry that is afforded these Houses and their committees is constantly being eroded. We need to establish once and for all what can be expected of us. I would like a debate on the issue. Perhaps such a debate is one for the commission rather than for the Chamber, but I would like to be advised as to what we can do in establishing the rights and the legitimate function of Members.