David Norris (Independent)

This clearly indicates that the Seanad is less significant than not just the Dáil, but also any committee that happens to be sitting. If the Dáil does not sit, there is no "Oireachtas Report" at all, although the Oireachtas consists of two Chambers. This attitude is reinforced by regular media reports and publications dealing allegedly with the "general election" that, on closer perusal, turn out to be coverage of Dáil elections only. No other radio or television station gives routine coverage of any kind to Seanad Éireann.

This does not inhibit many of my colleagues from alternately attacking and then toadying to the media. One recent instance was the sentimental reception given in this House to the 25th anniversary of "Morning Ireland". It was described as such a brilliant production, such a wonderful programme, etc. I listened to the programme that day and I had to restrain myself because it would not have been appropriate to be the pooper at that particular party. I listened to the programme and it did not deserve the praise it received. I am reaching the end of this paragraph, but the Acting Chairman knows there was a lot of injury time. The show's production values were terrible, the link to London was inaudible, historic clips were drowned out by inappropriate rock music and, inevitably, we were treated to the usual whinnying and giggling at facetious jokes by the presenters. The only bright spot was the momentary re-emergence of David Hanly.

This is all of a piece with the general dumbing down throughout the media. Instead of hard news, what we are given is infotainment and factoids in the American manner. We hear much about investigative journalism. However, as a fully paid up member of the NUJ, I can tell the House that there is damn little of that around. Most of what passes for investigative journalism in this country is little other than muck raking.

We do not help with our performance in this House. I will continue with this point after I have listened to my colleagues. I also have more to say regarding the way in which the House is organised or, rather, disorganised. We had a classic example of it today when we met at 5.30 p.m. instead of 5 p.m. and no Minister was present. When asked, people did not know what was going on.