Michael McDowell (Independent)

I do not want to call a vote at 2.30 p.m. because we will be here until 2.45 p.m. In the two minutes remaining, I want to make the point to the Minister that if Senator Fitzpatrick received a letter from somebody saying she had defamed them in something she said in this House, her solicitor could write back and say that was an occasion of absolute privilege. If the person then commenced a High Court or a Circuit Court defamation action, she would go to a competent barrister and solicitor.They would apply immediately that on the pleadings this was an occasion of absolute privilege, and have the case flung out with costs on day one. It would be a preliminary application and not delay anything. She would not be keeping her powder dry until she has all her witnesses lined up. She would act immediately to stop it. That is the point I am making.