Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

It is always valuable to listen to the contributions made by other Members based on their research, specialist skills or observations. Senator Mullen made a worthwhile contribution when he pointed out an error in a statement from a Minister. All he asked was for the Minister to come to the House to discuss the matter. I did not hear any comment or response that would suggest he was wrong in what he was saying, but there was a very broad sweep of the brush in response, with the Iona Institute, excommunication, Cardinal Brady and a host of other issues dropped right into the middle of it. I am not clear what this was about but I know that the Iona Institute is not here to respond and I think Members will agree that a discussion of excommunication is for another forum. I certainly think it is wrong to mention Cardinal Brady when it is possible that what there was a misinterpretation or misrepresentation of what he said. I would not like to think that any of us who wish in the future to make a contribution in this House might decline to do so because we fear being misrepresented in an extreme way. I hope we will continue to act in this House as we have always done, that is, by accepting all kinds of opinions and views. The only way we can reach any kind of understanding or consensus is by respecting each others' views.