Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I would ask the Senator to name the people in the Chamber where she would have immunity in doing that because we should not condone that kind of behaviour in any shape or form.

Senator Boyhan raised the issue of the Shane O'Farrell case. Senator Norris also has raised the case here previously. First, we send our condolences to the family of Shane O'Farrell on his tragic death and, second, we all agree there is a need for answers. The case was the subject of a Dáil motion and a motion in this House and the Minister sought the advice of the Attorney General on how best to proceed with the case, given that the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission was at the time still investigating the matter. The Minister, Deputy Flanagan, appointed a retired judge, Judge Gerard Haughton, to conduct a scoping exercise. I understand, but am open to correction on this, that this scoping exercise is still continuing. The family has been met and some changes have been suggested to the Minister, Deputy Flanagan, in terms of a proposed change to the terms of reference of the scoping exercise. I hope that in time, the recommendations will be able to be debated and that Judge Haughton will be able to continue his work. Following that, we can make a decision based on the outcome of that work.

Senator Gavan raised the issue of Shannon Airport. I would be happy to have a debate on the matter in the House at any time.

Senator Noone raised the issue of a report on State-funded contraception which, again, is an very important one. I would happy to ask the Minister to come into the House regarding the matter.

Senator Ó Donnghaile raised the issue of civic groups coming together yesterday in terms of the 1,000 signatories. It is important we plan for the future of our island.

I express my sympathy and that of the House to the family of the late Fr. Des Wilson, who died today in Belfast. He was a very strong powerful voice within our country. He was a person who tried to build bridges rather than take down bridges and he was very committed to his people.

I again welcome Senator Hackett to the House. I thank Members for their contributions.

As a measure of our support for and in expressing our sympathy to the family of the late Gay Byrne, I propose we stand for a minute's silence at the end of the Order of Business if that is agreeable.