Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

This House is not in a position to supersede a court order.

On Deputy Sargent's surprise over Bills published without notice, parliamentary Question Time is for the purpose of asking the line Ministers the legislation being contemplated by each Department. It is open to the Deputy to find out this information at any time by phone or by tabling a formal question.

The efficiency and effectiveness of this House should not be dictated by the quantity of legislation that passes. Perhaps the quality of the legislation is important.

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