Pearse Doherty (Donegal, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

While there is a wee bit of confusion with two pieces of legislation that are broadly similar, I believe that the process has helped us to refine and strengthen the legislation, especially in the areas of the six-year rules and around the categories of determinations by the Financial Services Ombudsman. I welcome the fact that the Minister of State has requested the Seanad to deal with the legislation next week. As I have said to this committee as far back as last year, it is my intention to ensure there is legislation in place before the summer recess to remove the six-year rule. I am not convinced that this Bill will be enacted in law before then. This is why we are still proceeding with the other Bill, but they work hand in glove.

While I do not propose to move some of my amendments on the basis that some technical issues have arisen with them, I will introduce them again on Report Stage.

On section 1, I have a minor query regarding commencement orders. The Bill provides that the Minister may commence certain sections on a particular day. Will the Minister of State confirm there is no intention to delay various sections, particular the section which would allow for the six-year rule to take effect? Will a commencement order be made immediately in respect of that section?