Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

When we enter this House, we bring with us a variety of views, philosophies and experiences. The system allows us to express our views freely and, while they do not have to be accepted by other Members, it is important that we feel we have the right to express them. We must protect this system because otherwise the people who expect us to represent them will be denied their rights. Without warning during a recess yesterday, I was subjected to unruly verbal abuse and name calling because of a view I expressed in this House. My colleagues around me were shocked by what they heard. I do not take issue with the personal offence but the fact that inherent in it can be intimidation intended to prevent us from expressing our views on some subject in the future.

I do not like the idea of controlled or contrived debate on any issue because that is anti-democratic. We must be allowed to express our views, irrespective of whether they are accepted by others. Yesterday, without warning, I was shocked for my first time in this House. I hope it will never happen again and that nobody in this House will feel he or she must not put forward views for fear of being subjected to the same treatment. I do not say this for my own comfort but in defence of the democratic system. That is the only way any of us should feel involved, responsible and answerable in this House.