Grand Chamber appeal
Senator Conway-Walsh argued the hooded men case should go to the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights. The Leader replied that the decision rests with the Minister and relevant Departments, but he would welcome a future debate.
The logical next step is to take the case to the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights.
Comment on this
That is not for me to decide today but a matter for the Minister in consultation with the Departments involved. I will be happy to have him come to the House to discuss the matter. The important point is that he is meeting the men today and that their case is being heard further. I hope we will see justice prevail in the case, given the ruling made earlier which, to be fair, many of us could not comprehend.
I will not get into a row with anyone on the matter raised by Senator David Norris, but it will come before the Committee on Procedure and Privileges. The thrust of the motion is beyond my pay grade. I will not prevent the motion from being heard, but if it is ruled out of order, my hands are tied. I must defer to higher placed beings to decide such matters.