Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I move amendment No. 60:

In page 34, line 18, to delete “may” and substitute “shall”.

This is quite a simple amendment, which tries to ensure the Minister of the day shall not simply look at something, but will act. At the moment, the section states "may." This amendment will change that to "shall", which is more positive and actionable. A potential Minister may not prescribe certain things.

There was a discussion on this in the Seanad because an amendment had been tabled by Senators Higgins, Boyhan, and Ruane. I know the drafters of legislation do not like putting the duty on a Minister to act on all occasions. However, given our history and heritage, there is a need in these cases for this to be a more positive action. That is why we propose the insertion of "shall."