Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

It is not possible to indicate when the Foyle and Carlingford fisheries Bill will be published. It is a joint project with the Northern Ireland authorities. Work has been completed on our side and we are awaiting the text from Northern Ireland. I cannot say at this stage when it will be ready. It will take some time.

The other Bills to which Deputy Kenny referred should have been ready for this session. The information I gave the House indicated that the Bills would have completed the parliamentary drafting process and would be ready. If they have gone over time, it is because the drafting process has taken somewhat longer than should have been the case. The Chief Whip tries to ensure, as far as possible, that the information about the legislation he lists at the start of the session is true and that such legislation is published at least by the commencement of the next session.

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