Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Minister had enough on his plate without taking on another portfolio. I know that Senator Pat O'Neill will have greater influence in Brussels in a few weeks' time when his and our friend will take over as Commissioner. I congratulate Mr. Hogan on his endorsement yesterday and wish him well in the Commission.

Last night I attended a function in County Roscommon when the freedom of Country Roscommon was given to the well known actor Chris O'Dowd who was there with his lovely wife, Dawn O'Porter. It was a wonderful occasion to highlight the benefits of living in County Roscommon and a great public relations exercise. One point that struck me was that because of the new legislation the office holder of the county council was addressed as Cathaoirleach as opposed to mayor. There is room for flexibility in that regard and I hope there will be some change in the regulations.

Last night I had the opportunity to watch "Oireachtas Report", a programme I do not watch very often, which was broadcast at 12.25 a.m. I was absolutely appalled and disappointed that the deliberations of Seanad Éireann were totally ignored. The ejection of three Members of the Dáil dominated the programme which refused to recognise the fact that Senator Averil Power had tabled a motion which was agreed to by the House recommending to the Government the recognition of Palestine as a state. As Senator Sean D. Barrett said, the work of this House was recognised on the BBC World Service this morning, yet a form of censorship is being operated by those producing "Oireachtas Report". They refused to recognise the contribution of those in the Seanad Chamber yesterday. Furthermore, Senator David Norris's Bill was also ignored. I ask the Leader to bring this matter to the attention of the relevant authorities. The Houses of the Oireachtas are equal but designated as the Lower and the Upper House. As the people endorsed the continuation of the Seanad, we are entitled to a fair share of media coverage. I understand the Oireachtas has a public relations unit which should be representing the Oireachtas in terms of how it is presented to the public. I condemn the activities of the directors and producers of this programme. I regard it as a form of censorship by national broadcasters who may think the issues raised in the House yesterday were not in line with the sensibilities of those who are now very senior in RTE.