Catherine Connolly (Galway West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State. It is my first time being on this committee. It is interesting to listen to the discussion. With regard to that review, I hope that Deputy Ó Laoghaire would push it or, if not, that we would come back to it on Report Stage. I think it is essential to have a review clause in all legislation. I hear what the Minister of State said, as my colleague has said, that this is interim legislation and that he will come back to address the area again. I echo what Deputy Pringle just said. Is the Minister of State against the idea of a review in principle? I understand that he is saying this is interim, so there is no need for it. We asked for a review of the Parole Bill and the Minister said no. Standing Order 164A was quoted, stating that reviews take place anyway. That review is extremely limited. There is an attitude among various Departments that a review is not necessary because it is an extra burden on the Department. It seems to me that it is an essential part of any legislation if we are genuinely interested in effecting change although I understand the caution if this is interim legislation.