Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail)

Cuirim fáilte roimh an Aire ar ais go dtí an Teach seo tráthnóna. The Minister is very welcome back to the House this afternoon. I thank him for his comprehensive outline of the background of the Defamation (Amendment) Bill 2024. As he said, freedom of speech is important and is something that we must protect at all costs. I know journalists are powerful individuals but it is important that they be held to account at the same time. It is imperative that people have a right to respond. I think a balance has been struck well in this Bill.

Defamation and the cost of insurance comprise a big issue. I understand the Alliance for Insurance Reform has written to the Minister about a number of concerns it has taken on board. I know the Minister outlined some of them. There has been significant consultation about this legislation over a period. I am glad that many people have had their say.

This legislation's introduction is overdue. It covers a wide range of headings, all of which are in need of reform. Unfortunately, we have a reputation in this country for defamation that puts us in a league of our own with regard to legal cases. Unfortunately, that has knock-on effects on the insurance premiums that individuals pay. It is important that we strike the right balance. We seem to be out of kilter with our neighbours on this aspect of legislation. The Minister outlined the cost of insurance for small businesses and the claims, which seem to be endless. I hope that this legislation will go some way towards addressing their concerns.

There will be opportunities later for amendments to be introduced. I will not delay the House this afternoon. I welcome the legislation. This debate gives us a chance to get a good look at it. There will be an opportunity for people to bring forward amendments as they see fit. For now, I am happy, on behalf of the Fianna Fáil grouping, to give our full support to this. I thank the Minister for outlining the contents of the Bill in great detail.