Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

I said I accept the thrust of the commission's decision, but I would debate with it how it can be implemented so as not to restrict Members' rights. I shall make that point, and if I cannot convince it of that, we will have to go ahead. It is a misunderstanding of how a system works.

Deputy Kenny's point is correct that if one gets a briefing one should accept it is available to everybody. However, it cannot be formalised in such a manner that if someone wants a briefing everybody else must be present at the same time, and that is how it is being read by everybody. We shall try to resolve that. I do not believe it will be a major issue to resolve. I accept the thrust of the recommendation. I want to see it implemented in a way that does not remove a useful facility which allows this House to work effectively.

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