Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
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I accept the Minister's statement that, on the advice of the Attorney General, we must be seen to be acting proportionately and that the industry must have time to respond. I am quite definite in my own view from research that the industry would be well able to respond adequately within that timeframe. In Australia, it was able to respond within two months of the legislation's enactment. It had to wash out branded packaging to comply with the legislation. It has happened in another jurisdiction with a similar basis for establishing the legislation.

I tabled the amendments because we must send out very strong messages that although proportionality is important in passing legislation, we should not be brow-beaten, intimidated or threatened. I hope the advice comes from proportionality rather than the fear of threats, intimidation or bullying. In view of what the Minister has stated, I will press the amendment.