Kathleen Funchion (Carlow-Kilkenny, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

There is a small note as to why it was ruled out of order. It said it would result in costs to the Exchequer in the form of replacement costs for staff in the civil and public service, particularly in the health and education sectors. That is why, in accordance with Standing Order 212(3), it had to be ruled out.

As it is ruled out of order, technically the Minister does not have to respond. In general, in this committee he has always been fair to us. Does he want to comment in general on that? I cannot imagine it is an issue he would oppose. We have to be fair in the sense that there are notes provided on amendments and it is not one that was expected to come up for discussion. He may wish to make a general comment on it.