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Dáil
‹ Ceisteanna ar Pholasaí nó ar Reachtaíocht - Questions on Policy or Legislation

Name-calling in the Chamber

Summary

Timmins said name-calling undermines respect, democracy and the Chamber’s authority, and urged Deputies to avoid it. The Taoiseach agreed and supported his appeal.

I want to bring up the issue of name-calling that I have witnessed in this Chamber. It is an unwelcome and unnecessary part of debate. It actually is a reflection on the person themselves who does the name-calling and demonstrates that they do not have the language to deal with the issue. It shows a total lack of respect for the other person and, hence, a lack of respect for our democracy. It also lessens the authority of this Chamber, contributes to bringing politics into disrepute, and sets a bad example. I ask that people think before they speak, before they resort to name-calling.

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Verona Murphy An Ceann Comhairle Independent

We could all answer that, but it is the Taoiseach's turn.

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It is not quite within my domain, but I agree with Deputy Timmins and support him in his endeavour regarding the avoidance of name-calling.

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Verona Murphy An Ceann Comhairle Independent

I thank the Deputy and I hope everybody has that answer in their head. I call Deputy Ken O'Flynn.

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