David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Yesterday, a Member stated as a fact that the offices of Youth Defence had been attacked by what he called pro-abortion lobbyists. I wish to inform the House that there is no substance whatsoever in that statement. I took the trouble to contact the police when I heard of the attack. When I spoke to the inspector in charge at the Bridewell, he informed me that there had been an unpleasant attack, in that animal manure had been smeared on the door and that posters of some kind had been placed. When I asked him whether the Garda had suspects, he replied that it had no idea whatsoever. It was quite wrong to try to use that attack for political or ideological advantage. It may well be that ill-advised people carried out this obnoxious attack, and I condemn it, but until we find out who did it, it is unwise and irresponsible of Senators to make accusations simply because they do not agree with people who are not pro-abortion, but pro-choice. Those ill-advised people are most certainly not pro-life.

I congratulate Senator Barrett on his comments. He was quite right. We should sing our praises a bit more in Seanad Éireann. Senator Healy Eames made a good point about the consultations. Often, the public does not know how valuable the Seanad is. For example, Senator Barrett and others stayed in the Chamber for a long time to discuss amendments to the Taxi Regulation Bill 2012 and appeared to reach agreement. We have changed legislation, as we always do. This is our function, but it is not recognised and is never reported in the press. The only matter that is ever reported, be it on television or radio or in the print media, is the Order of Business, which is why so many people grandstand at that time, including myself.