Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Cuirim fáilte roimh an Aire Stáit agus gabhaim buíochas leis as an óráid chuimsitheach a thug sé don Seanad. Tacaím leis an rún atá os ár gcomhair. I welcome the Minister of State to the House and, like my colleagues have done, thank him for the comprehensive speech he delivered. There is not a great deal more that I could add in acknowledging the importance and, indeed, necessity for this motion to be agreed by both Houses.

Senator Buttimer touched on the misuse of SLAPP in some instances not just against organisations but individuals who take a principled stand for human rights, equality and justice issues. Not only does that place a huge financial burden on individuals in certain circumstances, but it also has the potential to create a chilling effect for people who want to continue in their campaigning and activism. That is why I support the motion as others have.

I know that some of my colleagues in the Lower House have a broader view on the directive. They equally support it and will, no doubt, outline those considerations to the Minister of State when the motion comes before the Dáil. I thank him for being in the Chamber and I welcome and support the motion.