Michael Ahern (Cork East, Fianna Fail)

I apologise on behalf of the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Martin, for his absence from the debate. As he is attending talks in Dublin Castle, I will reply on his behalf. I have no doubt Committee Stage will provide an opportunity to discuss all the issues raised on Second Stage. This is as it should be given the importance of this Bill which raises key issues for a critical sector of the economy.

I propose to respond to some of the points raised by Deputies during the debate. It is difficult to discern where Deputy Hogan and his party stand on this issue.

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