Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank all the Deputies for their comments. I concur that this is an important Bill and I look forward to working with everyone. On points where we think we can make progress and find common ground, as a Government we will commit to do that. I note in the amendments some important matters have been raised with Deputies and we will work to resolve them in partnership to ensure we get the best legislation scrutinised in this committee.

Amendment No. 2 proposes to commence Part 2, Chapter 2, relating to the provisions for the NMPF, on enactment. Amendment No. 1 is a proposed technical amendment to enable amendment No. 2. Section 1(5) provides for commencing various elements of the Bill by order. This flexibility is necessary to ensure the necessary resources and structures are in place to operate the new provisions. I will be opposing this amendment.

Amendment No. 3 proposes to prevent the commencement of Part 2, Chapters 3 and 6, Part 4 and Part 8 pending a subsection (1) review of the NMPF, under section 17(2) and a subsequent statement to the Oireachtas and a debate in both Houses. The Oireachtas cannot make commencement conditional on external events and factors. I will be opposing amendment No. 3.