Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 6 Nov 1996

Vol. 471 No. 2

Written Answers. - Parental Equality.

Seán Haughey

Question:

106 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Equality and Law Reform the reason the Legal Aid Board has applied for an injunction to prevent the public relations officer of Parental Equality discussing publicly the problems faced by separated fathers trying to continue in their roles as fathers to their children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20591/96]

Seán Haughey

Question:

107 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the Legal Aid Board is trying to prevent the public relations officer of Parental Equality, an organisation dedicated to protecting and promoting parenthood, from representing the organisation in the media; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20589/96]

Seán Haughey

Question:

108 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the Legal Aid Board is taking the public relations officer of Parental Equality to court for speaking about his personal arrangements, making it appear as if the board is attempting to impede his right to freedom of speech; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20590/96]

Minister for Equality and Law Reform (Mr. Taylor)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 106, 107 and 108 together.

I am advised by the Legal Aid Board that the possibility of taking any form of action against any individual in respect of the matters referred to by the Deputy in his question has never been considered. I am also assured that the board is not endeavouring in any way to prevent the public relations officer of Parental Equality from representing the organisation or discussing the views of its members publicly, in the media or elsewhere.