Rónán Mullen (Independent)

Like many others, I too woke up to the latest round of depressing news about the economy in the ESRI report. I note Senator John Hanafin's point that we have been here before to a considerable extent. At a time like this, it is inevitable Opposition will oppose and Government will defend.

What is becoming ever clearer is that we are facing a serious test of our national character, a test that is becoming more challenging and difficult. There will be a need for great realism, but also combined with a need for optimism, in tackling these economic problems with the resources at our disposal and our national genius. We need to motivate each other and work on bringing out the best in our society, not the worst. The worst could come out so easily at a time like this. There is a need for unity and persistence in the face of the challenges.

My colleague, Senator Bacik, referred to the proposal to introduce an offence for blasphemous libel. This was one of those occasions where one had to go to the print media to get the detail one needs. I certainly did not hear the detail of the proposal in the broadcast media this morning. To me, the proposal is somewhat reasonable. It is important we recognise freedom of expression is fundamental in our society. However, it must be balanced with respect for other people. It seems to me that the proposal drafted by the Minister requires there would be an intention to cause outrage. There is freedom for people to express their political and religious views, including criticism of other people's religious views, which is vital. It is damaging to society and the public good where that spills over into intent to offend or cause outrage. It is appropriate there might be some recourse to the courts in such circumstances.