‘I shudder to think of the day when you'd ever be in authority,’ Micheál Martin tells TD Paul Murphy in bitter Dáil exchange over ‘jackboot’ comment

Micheál Martin: 'I shudder to think of the day when you'd ever be in authority'

Tánaiste Micheál Martin and People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy clashed in the Dáil this afternoon during the Government's consultative forum on neutrality.

Mr Martin accused the party of not being “great advocates” for freedom of speech and said he “shudders” at the thought of them ever being in a position of power.

"You talk about freedom of speech in Tunisia... but what you're trying to suggest is that certain people can't speak because they have a view,” he said.

"That is what you're saying - they should not be allowed speak if there's up to 50 or 60 speakers, one or two have views that are contrary to Deputy Boyd Barrett, then they should not speak. That is intolerance.

"You guys are no great advocates of freedom of speech at all and I shudder to think of the day when you'd ever be in authority because by God would you put the jackboot on people who might have views different to yours."

Mr Murphy interjected and asked Leas Cheann Comhairle and Independent TD Catherine Connolly for the Tánaiste's comment to be withdrawn immediately.

The Foreign Affairs Minister refused to withdraw his comment, stating he believes "fundamentally in the right of freedom of expression in this parliament".

He added: "It's a bit rich for Deputy Murphy to be looking for, he's getting somewhat squeamish now."

Mr Murphy said the Tánaiste was "in breach of standing orders".

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