The matter of PrometheanStardust's ban was referred to me by Tigger_ as the highest arbitrator of #politicaldebate. Though I prefer not to intervene in disputes pertaining to channel administration, I do not take my responsibilities as channel owner lightly. It is with regret that I must exercise my authority to settle this drawn-out and ugly dispute.

I hereby present my views on the disciplinary action taken by SoleilMoonFrye against PrometheanStardust:

1. Channel operators have a responsibility to safeguard the free communication of ideas and opinions in #politicaldebate.
2. Channel operators are therefore permitted to use their channel access to ban those whose sole intent is to disrupt the free flow of ides and opinions. This includes flooders, spammers and serial pests (including Warren1984).
3. Access is granted to channel operators on the condition that they do not abuse their privileges.
4. Freedom of expression occasionally leads to furious debate, which in turn leads momentary lapses in channel decorum.
5. It is not unreasonable to suggest that such lapses in channel decorum can place great strains on relationships within the channel.
6. Channel operators must always put themselves above personal differences. Cautious use of /ignore is encouraged in the event that personal differences leads to personal abuse.
7. However, the usage of /ignore does not excuse the channel operator from his/her duties (see point 1).
8. Thus, if the level of personal abuse directed at a channel operator reaches a level that prevents a channel operator from exercising his/her duties, the imposition of a ban is not only permissible, but justifiable.

The evidence presented to me by SoleilMoonFrye is quite damning of PrometheanStardust's behaviour and disrespect for both SoleilMoonFrye and other channel members. I find that SoleilMoonFrye's decision to ban PrometheanStardust was justifiable on the grounds that PromethenStardust's relentless attacks inhibited SoleilMoonFrye's duty as an op.

However, I question the severity of ban. PrometheanStardust is a long standing member of #politicaldebate and prolific contributor to the channel. It is my opinion that a short cooling off period of no more than 3 days would have been more than sufficient to discipline PrometheanStardust, and provide an incentive for PrometheanStardust to reconcile his differences with SoleilmoonFrye. Lifetime bans are unconscionable and serve no purpose other than to harm the reputation of the channel.

I therefore decree that PrometheanStardust's ban is lifted immediately.