Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senators Norris and Ó Ríordáin raised the issue of the eighth amendment. I would say to Senator Norris that it is not the Government's to lose. This is a democracy. It is up to the people to make a decision. It is up to the Members of the Oireachtas to show leadership and, if they are for repeal, to go out and campaign for it, not to come in here criticising those who are doing work on the ground to ensure the referendum is passed. Equally, those who have a different viewpoint are entitled to it.

The fundamental point that Senator Ó Ríordáin addressed - I know as an independent Chair, the Cathaoirleach had to refer it to me - was that there is a fundamental problem that needs to be addressed about the inaccuracies in the postering by one side of the debate. There is an obligation and duty on the Referendum Commission, in my opinion, but also on independent journalists to highlight, promulgate and verify that the facts are incorrect in postering on one side of the equation. It is disingenuous of one side of the debate - the "No" side - to put up misleading information and to cast fear and use diversionary tactics. I am all for debate that is informed and that is not based on scaring and fear. There is a duty on the Referendum Commission to clarify. We spoke about social media and the influence it may have. Equally, the area of postering has had an influence on this debate so far.

Senators Marie-Louise O'Donnell and Norris also raised the issue of the portrait.I want to disassociate myself from the remarks of Senator Norris. The portrait by Noel Murphy, an acclaimed artist, is a reflection of the 53 women who have served and serve in the Houses of the Oireachtas. It is unfair to use headline grabbing sentences to denigrate the portrait. I am not an artist or a critic-----