Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)

I join Senator Harris in asking for a debate on the media. The way in which the media have failed to portray political life in this country is appalling, in particular, for example, the vilification of Deputy Kenny.

I also join with Senator Donohoe in asking for a debate on emigration. Does the Leader agree with the Tánaiste that to emigrate is a source of fun and adventure? I hope he will disagree profoundly with her. Forced emigration is neither welcome nor an adventure nor fun for the many thousands of young people who have been forced to leave these shores. It is about time we had a real debate on this. Whatever about the Tánaiste, her remarkable performance over the past couple of days has shown that she is part of a Government that is aloof and detached from reality.

I preface my final question by saying that I fully accept the Cathaoirleach's ruling on my Adjournment debate matter prior to the Order of Business and I do not take umbrage with him, lest he think I do. I ask the Leader where lies responsibility for the HSE, the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland, RTE, the NRA and many other semi-State organisations. In this House, we elected representatives have no recourse to these organisations, the Minister has no responsibility and the Government is not in this House called to account. Wherein lies responsibility for these organisations?