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

I thank the Cathaoirleach for his kind words. I look forward to working with the committee. This legislation has been in a state of genesis for a significant period. There is no standalone Act for Civil Defence and this will be modernising, cornerstone legislation to underpin and define it. Civil Defence has been operating under an Act of 1939, to which there have been a number of amendments over the years, in 1946, 2002 and 2012, but the legislation before us will restate our priorities. It has been clearly welcomed by the House in general. I look forward to engaging with the committee on the amendments.