David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy.

On a serious note, sections of the Bill are important. As a result of today's decision certain cases will proceed to the High Court instead of the Circuit Court thus imposing extra costs and trauma on the general public whom we represent. The sooner we can sort this matter out the better. Postponement will mean that cases will be held in the High Court instead of the Circuit Court. We need to sort this matter out pretty quickly, Chairman. I still feel we could go ahead with a full Bill as I do not think there is anything stopping us from doing so. In fact, I intend to take advice and shall return here shortly with advice. I apologise for not knowing about this matter. I genuinely did not know about it before the meeting, which is most unfortunate. I am also disappointed that colleagues did not see fit to agree with my request to proceed with the other sections of the Bill. We could have discussed them and dealt with them. Doing so would not have changed the law or had an impact on anything. That is disappointing and regrettable but so be it.

I agree with the Chairman's summation that we adjourn until a later date, hopefully as soon as possible, to return here to deal with the legislation. First, I am disappointed that we did not continue with the full Bill. Second, I am disappointed that we did not continue with part of the Bill even though it would have been impacted by the case. If Fianna Fáil has decided to adopt this view then I have no choice but to accept the reality of new politics and, therefore, we cannot continue. It is extremely serious when a Government Bill cannot be discussed. I agree with the Chairman's proposition as I have no choice.