Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister of State to the House. On behalf of the Fine Gael Party, I concur wholeheartedly with Senator Horkan's remarks. It is critically important that we send a message from the House that we support this important legislation. It is extraordinary that it has to be introduced in the context of what is happening in many parts of the world. It is about safeguarding the rights of journalists as well as safeguarding those who promote and work for human rights. In a wider context, there is an absolute need to rebut the argument being peddled by some people that we have too many NGOs in this country. A democracy must always have voices that promote and advocate on behalf of different people, groups and organisations whatever their point of view may be. Some say that we have too many NGOs and people promoting X over Y. When one sees basic freedoms being curbed or curtailed across the world, there is a need for us in this Parliament and democracy to stand up and be that voice.

As Senator Horkan said, the Minister of State has given a clear explanation of what is required of us, thus I will not delay the House any further. It is important for us in this House, the European Union and beyond to send a collective, collaborative message. It is about ensuring the rights that we have won and achieved in the western world are made clear to other parts of the world and that we do not regress and go backwards. I support the proposed directive.

I thank the Minister of State for coming to the Chamber. He said that the Minister is looking at amending the defamation Bill, a subject about which we can debate another time. However, today is an important day and I am happy to support the motion on behalf of the Fine Gael group.