Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
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I would like to draw a particular matter regarding this Bill to the attention of the committee before we conclude. As the committee is aware, the Bill contains a provision for a commencement order to bring its provisions into effect following enactment. I want to acknowledge the co-operation of both Houses in bringing the Bill to its current position. I understand that provisional dates have been allocated for Report and Final Stages in the Dáil and that the Bill will be recommitted to the Seanad later next week to enable it to be enacted before the end of the year.

Rather than cause any further delay and to reflect the view of both Houses that the legislation should be effective as soon as possible I will table an amendment on Report Stage to remove the requirement for a commencement order. On that basis the Bill will become effective as soon as it is signed into law by the President, which is on the fifth, sixth or seventh day after it is presented to him for signature.