Willie Penrose (Westmeath, Labour)

Speaking as someone who can be pernickety with regard to amendments and so on, I thank the Minister for listening to us. We know he is circumscribed with regard to what he can do, but we often table amendments for the purpose of provoking debate on particular issues. In his Second Stage contribution, Deputy Seán Ryan showed the importance of that. It is clear the Minister listened, which is also important. We recognise that and thank him. We also thank his officials for the help they have given us with many Bills.

This Bill is not just for Deputies or lawyers, but also for the general public. Deputy Stanton is right regarding the explanatory guide. I know it will not purport to be a legal interpretation; that is always the safeguard of the Minister and others. Nevertheless, the guide will be useful. It will be the document many people will read to hopefully interpret some of their dues or entitlements.

I also thank the legal staff in the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel and that of the Attorney General, who have contributed to the Bill. They have all done a very good job and served the consumers of social welfare in a solid manner with this legislation.

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