Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

In regard to the Comhairle (Amendment) Bill, it is often the practice that appointments are made pending statutory powers or amendments being brought before the House. It does not stop these public bodies from effectively discharging their functions and responsibilities. Following calls made in this House for some time we are bringing forward important legislation in this session in regard to health reform, the road traffic Bill we have just discussed, and a whole range of other issues which are not only relevant but topical and important. The programme in this coming session is aligned far more to political priorities than was the case in the past and should be welcomed on that account.

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