Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

As I have said a number of times, the heads of the animal health Bill have been approved for a considerable time. The purpose of the Bill is to consolidate and update the diseases of animals legislation. It is a complex matter to cover all Bills of this nature over a long period. I do not have a date but I have passed on the fact that the Bill has been raised in the House numerous times to see if it can be expedited.

The education Ireland Bill will establish a body to regulate education services, including the teaching of English as a foreign language to foreign students, and provide for related matters. It is still hoped the legislation will be ready next year.

See this speech in context