Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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Can I ask a question? I know that the Chairman is not the author of the decision but his is the unfortunate name appended to the letter of advice which states:

Dear Deputy Ó Caoláin,
I regret to inform you that Amendments 6, 71 and 72, tabled by you for Committee Stage of the above Bill, must be ruled out of order as they involve a potential charge on the Exchequer.

Let me examine my amendment. I sought to insert the following new subsection "(h) ensure the prevention of harm to a child from all forms of neglect and abuse." Surely the provision can hardly be a charge on the Exchequer. Surely this is a component part of the responsibilities of those we are now entrusting the new agency to, going forward. Surely that is what all of us are about, protecting children from harm, neglect and abuse?

We shall reach the later amendments in good time. However, I was taken aback that my amendment No. 6 was ruled out of order. It is beyond my understanding. It is what I can only describe as a device that has been used, time and time again, to set aside challenging, awkward or difficult amendments from Opposition voices. Amendment No. 6 is within the spirit of what the legislation is all about. I do not know whether the Minister wishes to comment. Does she share the same view?