Arthur Morgan (Louth, Sinn Fein)

I thank Deputy Durkan for his support and I noted his reference to the Mullingar accord. We must bring the Deputy a bit closer and perhaps we can have an Ardee accord. The Minister of State said this amendment would represent an intrusion on the Oireachtas. On many occasions, a good intrusion is exactly what the Oireachtas needs. This is one such occasion. What better way is there of strengthening an area that needs it? This is the Oireachtas. That is what the amendment is about.

There is no reason this amendment cannot be accepted. It would place a significant onus on the person who accounts to the Minister for Finance to provide for an area in respect of which such a provision is needed. Without this, the section is inadequate. This is the Minister of State's opportunity to go for broke and make a name for himself. To judge by the contributions so far, he will have support from all of us.

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