David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I want to express my outrage at the complete lack of coverage of the opening session of Seanad Éireann by the media. It was a slap in the face for democracy. It is astonishing that the national broadcaster, Teilifís Éireann, had an hour-long news programme, in which it went all around the country seeing nice old ladies making jam and all the rest of it, yet there was not one single mention of Seanad Éireann, which is extraordinary. There was one journalist here, I think, the last time from a provincial newspaper. I do not see anybody here today but maybe they are concealed somewhere. That is shocking.

In the strange circumstances of our first meeting we have largely omitted to pay adequate tribute to the former Cathaoirleach, Senator Denis O'Donovan. In my 30 years in Seanad Éireann, he was the best and most outstanding Cathaoirleach that we have had. He was decent, fair-minded, judicious with a sense of humour and a sense of decorum. I am sure that the new Cathaoirleach will find his example very valuable in the way he conducts himself, and I wish him very well in his new role.

With regard to direct provision, four or five years ago I introduced legislation into this House that was very narrowly voted down. The legislation would have completely solved the direct provision problem at that time. The then Minister of State,Deputy Aodhán Ó Ríordáin, told the House that the matter would be resolved within three months. That was four or five years ago so he signally failed to do so and I hope that this session will not fail to address this important matter.