Clare Daly (Dublin Fingal, Independent)
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I am not interested in whatever tit-for-tat is going on between Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael. There are much bigger issues involved. The information is considerable. I was not aware of it, as a consequence of me not reading The Irish Times, of which I am proud.

I agree with the point made by Deputy Chambers. It is shocking that the Department has not come before the committee to inform us of the development and that it did not communicate with us on the matter. This issue has caused considerable concern among members of the public. There is a massive campaign among citizens raising objections and fears as to what this legislation means. We now have information to the effect that the courts will consider the matter again, which changes everything, and the only reason the Bill is before us is on foot of a previous court decision. These are pretty unusual and compelling circumstances and, on that basis, I do not see any reason for the committee not to adjourn. It would be irresponsible not to do so. It would be viewed very poorly by citizens when there is so much concern about the legislation, a possibility that it may not be necessary at all and the certainty that the courts will consider it. We should not get into this terrain. Legislation that was motivated by a court decision will now be reconsidered by the courts. It is entirely proper to await their decision. That was the only reason the Bill was pushed forward on all other Stages. I support an adjournment on this basis. I do not really care about the other mechanics of the Bill. There are issues with the Department that need to be addressed.