John Gilroy (Labour) | Oireachtas source

Reference was made to statements made by my colleague, the Minister of State at the Department of Health, Deputy White. I want to put on record that regardless of whether we agree with what he said, he is probably the only person who has actually put up a proper argument in favour of abolishing the Seanad. He has published a very good paper on his website. We must disagree with it but at least we can engage with it, unlike most of the other arguments I have heard for abolition of this House. I disagree with him but at least it is a proper argument. In fairness to the Minister of State, he has taken the time to put his thoughts on paper, unlike everybody else in the debate.

Some Senators mentioned the closing of the audio-visual room to NGOs. I also tried to book it yesterday only to be told that it was only available to schools and committees launching reports. It struck me that this is the people's Parliament and we should strive to open rather than close it. It seems there is a move afoot to close down discussion, critical debate and even democracy in this country. Perhaps the Government's next move might be to curb the media. Perhaps we should reduce the amount of reporting the media is allowed to do. It would not surprise if that was the next thing.

Senator Moloney referred to the report of the Comptroller and Auditor General. Given the outlining of the misspent money and waste in the system, will anybody in this country ever be held accountable for wasting money?