Noel Treacy (Galway East, Fianna Fail)

It ensures that the implications of the Supreme Court judgments are dealt with in a proper and legally sound way. Looking ahead, I believe the Bill modernises the arrangements for transposing EC laws speedily and effectively. This will ensure that the benefits of the Single Market continue to flow to Irish citizens and consumers alike.

As I have already said, following the Supreme Court judgments, the Attorney General's clear advice to the Government was that this Bill is essential. Our officials and I have consulted widely with Government Departments and, in particular, with the Office of the Attorney General in the preparation of the Bill. This is a short, technical but much-needed Bill. There is no intention to increase Executive power at the expense of these Houses. There is no question of Ministers fining or imprisoning anyone. The Bill is simply a response to the serious implications of the Supreme Court judgments, which require us to update the way we use secondary legislation to give effect to our EC obligations in Irish law. It is that straightforward.

I look forward to a positive discussion today and later on Committee Stage. I commend the Bill to the House for its approval.

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