Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Before I bring Professor Carthy in, I wish to make a point of clarification. It does not in any way take away from what Mr. Church has just put on the record. We are not in the process of addressing any specific legislation. I know that Deputy Howlin has tabled legislation, but this has been an identified substantive issue for address by this committee going back some time. It emerged from our work programme for substantive address in the widest possible way. There is no problem in referencing specific legislation that is before the Houses but that is not the purpose of our address, which is much wider. Speakers are entitled to address any legislation they think pertinent to the process. I invite Professor Carthy to make his presentation.