Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

It was apparent the Tánaiste had a recent experience of her own in mind when she said, "When the law and politics mix it is a lethal cocktail." However, she has put her jack back in his box, at least for now. When the Tánaiste spoke about the court analysis, she used the words "may well". She spoke about the prospect of a floodgate — a word she does not like — being opened and unscrupulous people presenting themselves. We are dealing with legislation. The words "may well" do not bring the certainty I believe is required in legislation. Speculative consideration is not good enough. We need certainties. We are putting in place legislation which will have a critical effect on the conditions that apply to the lives of ordinary citizens. It is incumbent on the Tánaiste, as it is on all Members, to deal with certainties. Speculative notions such as "may well" are not adequate justification for the approach she has adopted in opposing the reasonable amendments tabled by the Opposition. Even at this late stage, I ask the Tánaiste to withdraw this and other offensive sections before the conclusion of our deliberations.

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