Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)

Yes. I do not want to do something which is unconstitutional or unworkable. I do not want to have window dressing which does not have much practical effect. I suggest to Deputies that while the purpose of the section has general support, we need to address the question of whether it will be effective in achieving its aim. I propose to review the section and if I can recalibrate it to make a sensible and worthwhile provision, in other words, if it is worth the bother, I will do so. If I cannot do so, it will be no skin of my nose to agree with Deputy Howlin and return to the section on another day. I am not in a position, on the hoof, to come to a judgment on this matter at this point, as suggested by Deputy Howlin. If I was genuinely convinced the provision should be abandoned, I would do so immediately.

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