Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister, Deputy Sherlock and his officials, Elaine, Tara and Philip, for attending and all our colleagues for their co-operation in the consideration of this Bill. Their business-like approach has been a very effective way to deal with the Bill. I appreciate everybody's efforts in doing that. I acknowledge the significant contribution of advance briefings provided by the Department officials. It meant much to the members that many issues were addressed at an early stage so we could tease them out. It resulted in the efficient passing of the Bill through Committee Stage. It was a common-sense approach and is great to have it finished today as opposed to over the next couple of weeks. I am very conscious that further briefings will be held before Report Stage and I thank the Department for that. They are very important to facilitate members who are trying to do their work properly. The briefings are key to that. Members get answers to all their questions. I thank the team here at the top table. Much effort went into organising this over the last couple of months.