Ivana Bacik (Independent)

I wish to support Senator Mullen's call for a debate on a change in the law on mental capacity following the disturbing news of a young woman with Down's syndrome who was precluded from giving evidence. That was a very disturbing report. We heard an announcement yesterday by the Law Reform Commission of recommendations on reforming the law on juries, but we also need to revisit some aspects of the law on evidence. The Law Reform Commission examined the law on hearsay. I request a debate on these matters and changes in the law on criminal evidence and the jury system. That would be useful.

I join others in welcoming the outcome of the Croke Park talks but highlight the real mistake the Government made in pulling out of those talks so early and precipitously in December. By pulling the plug when it did it caused immense inconvenience to enormous numbers of the public.