Rónán Mullen (Independent)

I am trying to nip in the bud a rather unhealthy tendency towards using a divisive and aggressive debating technique. I hope I will succeed. I will try to avoid using terms such as "mean-minded" which was used by Senator Bacik. I never look at the motives of those who disagree with me. I never try to claim they have a particular reason or motivation for doing what they do. I criticise them on the merits of their case. If I have ever failed to achieve such a distinction, I apologise. I certainly try to live by this rule which involves not looking into people's motivations and not judging them personally, even if I disagree with their approach to an argument.

I would like to respond briefly to what Senator Regan had to say. One cannot take away people's dignity, or confer it on them. They have their own dignity. I would oppose any legislative measure that sought to detract from their dignity.

We have heard many references in recent times to the "new republic". I suspect some have a certain idea of what the new republic will be like. They seem to expect it will involve the separation of church and State, which I would support. People have to remember that the new republic will have to accommodate all of its citizens, including those who can be characterised as traditionalists, liberals or radicals.

In supporting Senator Walsh I appeal to Members to moderate their language and be temperate in their disagreements. If they are not going to be temperate, I have to ask the following question: if this is what they are like in victory, what would they be like in defeat?