David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I support my colleague Senator Quinn in asking that we take notice of the situation regarding the Sri Lankan citizen. I am aware of this case and Members of both Houses have taken this matter on board.

I also watched with interest the Archbishop of Dublin, Dr. Diarmuid Martin. I thought he was in an awkward position and dealt with it reasonably well. I was surprised he repeated something that was said in this House, which was that the judgment of the Supreme Court in the X case was a flawed judgment. It was inappropriate in this House. It is the entitlement of any citizen to make whatever comment he or she feels whether or not it is judicious, but I ask all those who feel this was a flawed judgment, particularly those in authority, to specify the precise flaws in the judgment to better inform the debate which is taking place at present. I reiterate what Senator Bacik stated about the information meeting at 4:30 p.m which will be held in the AV room. I attended such a meeting held by people with whom I do not agree and I found it informative and helpful.

I hope that those who attend this afternoon will not all be of the same mind and that some of those with a conscientious difficulty with the position taken up by Senator Bacik and me will also make themselves available.