Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)

The Garda Síochána Bill and the changes it proposes are the result of a process of consultation. The Minister did not bother to vote in the previous division and is not present to listen to this debate on his major amendments. That shows the contempt he has for us as legislators and for the amendments he has tabled. They are substantial amendments that require to be dealt with on Committee Stage. They also should be referred to the Human Rights Commission. That has not been done so we should, at least, recommit the Bill and deal with the Minister's amendments.

Perhaps somebody will give the Minister a copy of the Government's document, Regulating Better, which outlines how to deal with substantial amendments and regulations. It was published by the Government last year but the Minister obviously has not bothered to read it.

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