Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

On this matter, I do not wish to object to the principle of what is involved but I note in the notice given to the Whips that the third amendment proposed by the Minister is to deal with the consequences of an administrative oversight in regard to the commencement of certain provisions of the Aer Lingus Act 2004. The last of these amendments had not been signalled to the House and the Bills Office has advised that it is necessary to table a motion in the House to allow for this amendment to be considered in committee. The point has been made that if this is not done, there might be a legal doubt as to the Aer Lingus employee share ownership trust and the shares therein.

I am not opposed to the principle but I would like to know when this was brought to the attention of the Government. Why was it only brought to the attention of the Opposition parties at 5.30 p.m. yesterday? I make the point strongly that this is not the way to do business.

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