Seanad debates

Thursday, 22 March 2012

11:00 am

Photo of David NorrisDavid Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I move:

That leave be granted to introduce a Bill entitled an Act to provide for a tort of violation of privacy; and to provide for matters connected therewith.

Question put and agreed to.

Photo of Michael KittMichael Kitt (Galway East, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Since this is a Private Members' Bill, Second Stage must, under Standing Orders, be taken in Private Members' time.

Photo of David NorrisDavid Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I move: "That the Bill be taken in Private Members' time."

I seek that this Bill be taken next Wednesday during Private Members' time at 11.45 after the Order of Business. The Bill was promised as a counterbalance to the Defamation Bill passed some years ago, which Bill substantially weakened the defences of private individuals against invasions of privacy by the media.

Photo of Denis O'DonovanDenis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Senator needed only to formally to move that the Bill be taken in Private Members' time.

Photo of David NorrisDavid Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I understood from the Bills Office that I was expected to make a 30-second explanation. That is the written instruction I have from that office. It is helpful to my colleagues to know the background. The Bill is almost identical to one produced in 2006 by a previous coalition Government. It is also virtually identical to one on the Order Paper in the name of the Government. I expect that, although there may be amendments, it will be passed.

Photo of Denis O'DonovanDenis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

When is it proposed to take Second Stage?

Photo of Maurice CumminsMaurice Cummins (Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Next Wednesday.

Photo of Denis O'DonovanDenis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Is that agreed? Agreed.

Photo of David NorrisDavid Norris (Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I thank the House for its efficiency. In particular, I am thankful for the assistance given by officers provided through the Bills Office in making the various tweaks to the Bill. This is a new development, for which the Leader is responsible. It makes Seanad Éireann much more amenable to the introduction of legislation and should be welcomed.

Photo of Denis O'DonovanDenis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Winner all right, Senator.

Question put and agreed to.