Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)

That may have been when the decision was made in Brussels but it was known in advance for some time that new legislation would be required for this area, given that the earlier legislation had lapsed. I do not know why this rush exists at the European and domestic levels.

I would like information on the operation of the previous provisions in terms of whether airlines have complied with their requirements and premia are paid up to date. The Minister, when he sums up, might provide the House with this information. What proceeds have resulted from these premia? Have all airlines paid up to date and if not, what penalties are incurred? I am not satisfied that adequate safeguards are provided in this Bill to ensure airlines which do not pay their premia are sufficiently sanctioned. I would appreciate if the Minister provided information on that.

I am also concerned that the small number of amendments I tabled have been ruled out of order on the grounds they would give rise to a potential charge on the Exchequer. I appeal to the Ceann Comhairle not to be so strict. The Opposition must have some role in this House. Amendments we propose to legislation can be said to result in a charge, even if only an administrative one. It is unduly strict to rule out of order on that ground the amendments I have proposed to this Bill. It is unreasonable and I ask that the decision be reconsidered. No charge of substance is involved in any of these. The intention of the amendments was to improve the Bill. They are minor technical amendments. I hope to have an opportunity to speak to them.

I would like the Minister to indicate that this arrangement will be revisited in the future. This should have formed part of the Bill. Some may argue for a sunset clause, as was included in the previous one. Other than providing an opportunity to examine this and learn the operation of the scheme, there is undoubtedly a lack of choice in this matter. It has to be provided. While theoretical in many ways, potential exposure exists. There should be an opportunity to revisit the matter in, possibly, five years so as to see the scheme's operation. I would like to see that in the Bill.

I do not intend to delay the House further and will support the Bill.

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