Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)

May I ask the Tánaiste about two items of promised legislation? Today we were supposed to debate the Defence (Amendment) Bill but it has not been published. I understand it has not been brought to Cabinet. Can the Tánaiste give us any idea as to when we can expect it?

I wish to ask about two conflicting responses on promised legislation. Last week the Tánaiste told me here that we would have a Bill to facilitate the new children's hospital. I am glad the Cabinet has made a decision on that. The Taoiseach told me yesterday no legislation was needed. The Tánaiste might clarify if new legislation is going to be necessary to implement the new dispensation, or whether the Taoiseach has been telling the truth.

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