Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

It is generally clear from the text what sections of the 1997 and 1999 Acts are being referenced. I say this because the Bill refers to whatever section of the 1997 or 1999 Act that may be appropriate. The amendment was seeking to make this more specific. I will take on board the Minister's response by withdrawing the amendment and considering the matter before Report Stage.

I welcome the Minister's statement that he will consider the phrase contained in paragraph (c) because this provision will directly affect Members of the Oireachtas. People can make mistakes. For example, an individual may receive a cheque for €300 from a company and lodge it without knowing that it is from the company. He or she could then find a presumption is made that he or she was involved in a corrupt donation. For this reason, it will be necessary to be more specific in the Bill. Members of the Oireachtas are entitled to due process as much as anyone outside the House.