Rónán Mullen (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Like the philosopher of old who heard the fine speech that went before, I think I should just tear up my notes. It is very hard to disagree with anything Senator McDowell has said.

One of the things that makes me uncomfortable about hate crimes legislation, as is proposed, is that it in some way creates a hierarchy of victimhood, suggesting that some crimes are less serious than others and some are more serious than others. That is the danger with amnesties. The point must be made and accepted that to some degree that Rubicon was crossed when people decided to give an understanding the prosecutions would not take place with the provision of letters for those who are on the run and so on, as mentioned by Senator McDowell.

I do not have time to say any more, but I will take the opportunity to say this. I am glad that the Irish Government will be represented at that ceremony in October. A mistake was made and the Government's attendance is part of putting that right.