David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Once again the Minister of State has signally failed to address the point of principle involved. He has invoked the natural sympathy for wheelchair occupants and while one has every identification with them - I avoid the word "sympathy" because it is patronising - this is a red herring. Senator Barrett made the point effectively; we are attempting to overturn the judgments of the highest courts in the land by ministerial regulation. That is not appropriate and that is the principle, no matter if it is to do with whaling and harpoons or public lavatories. It should not be done, it is not good practice, it is not democratic and it is not contemplated by the Constitution. Senator Barrett has said it is illegal and I am convinced. Governments, however, get away with whatever they can, legal or not. It is the purpose and function of this House to stand up and point out when something is wrong. Perhaps the Minister of State might deal with that principle because he has not dealt with it so far.