Before the business commences, I wish to inform the House of a matter which, in my judgment and I hope in the judgment of the House, is a breach of privilege. Last evening, as I was coming into this building for the purpose of interviewing another Senator, after I had passed the cordon at the outer gate and was approaching the steps to Leinster House, I heard the command "Halt!" At the moment, I did not think that that command was intended for me. Soon afterwards the same command was repeated in a louder and more peremptory voice. I then looked up and I found that a rifle was levelled at me. I was then ordered to advance to be recognised; and I did, in fact, advance to be recognised, up to the steps leading to the entrance to this building. That was an arrest. It was a breach of privilege and, in my judgment, a distinct breach of one of the Articles of the Constitution. I do not wish to say how serious it might be if an absent-minded Senator or some person who thought he was in no sense intended happened to be coming in and were in my place. He might very easily have got shot. That is the danger. I do not raise this question merely because of the personal danger to myself or because of the prospect of danger to other members of the Seanad or Dáil. I raise it as a matter of constitutional privilege and a matter of constitutional right. I think that no Senator should be liable to be challenged within the precincts of the Houses of Parliament, and I merely mention the matter on the first occasion to you and to the House, and it is for you then to see what steps should be taken.
Complaint by Senator.
Cathaoirleach
I will have the matter seriously considered and I will let the Senator and the House know the result.