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

I will go through some of it anyway. There is not a lot there. I think we are all agreed that this proposed legislation impacts on a number of important policy areas, including childcare, gender equality issues and other areas. Once one starts bringing forward legislation in this area, it impacts on other policy areas. It is good practice, as the Chairman himself said, to invite stakeholders and, in this case, employers, employees and business interests, both large and small, to have input into legislation such as this, to have their say and allow them to put forward their points of view if that is so desired.

I am somewhat surprised and disappointed that the committee decided not to carry out any pre-legislative scrutiny on this important legislation. I know the value of pre-legislative scrutiny, having spent five years in the chair. It can highlight unintended consequences, and strengthen and improve legislation. I am surprised that it did not happen. I strongly suggested at the end of Second Stage that the committee would do that to allow stakeholders the opportunity, if they so desired, to comment on the proposed legislation. I expected that would happen and we are at a bit of a loss because it did not. There is a dearth of data because of that. I respect the complete independence of the committee but personally feel that. I publicly invite any stakeholders to write to me, as a Minister of State, if they so wish, if they have comments or suggestions to make regarding this Private Members' Bill.