Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)

Phase two is the Fitzpatrick report and the consultants were asked to talk to interested parties and to engage in a public consultation process. They met 40 different groups. They were asked to examine what happens internationally and make recommendations for change. That is what they have done. Should the Deputy wish, I will give him my briefing note. The consultants suggest that new legislation is required. While I have not brought this formally to the Government, I do not anticipate any difficulty. They suggest that responsibility be left with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, and that a new licensing process, a reporting regime and an enforcement regime is necessary. It is quite detailed.

To be helpful, I will give the Deputy a copy of the summary I have at my disposal. I do not know how detailed or complex the legislation will be but, obviously, we will do this as quickly as possible because we have international commitments to meet and it is a sensitive and important area.

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