Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)

This measure will only be discussed for one hour today. It is extremely important because it proposes to change dramatically the manner in which we transpose EU directives into domestic legislation. Approximately 70% of all legislation which comes through the House is European legislation. The Bill will mean that instead of it being scrutinised in the proper manner it will go to the line Minister who will issue a statutory instrument which will become law. It also includes provisions which carry penalties of imprisonment for up to three years and fines of up to €500,000 for citizens of this country. The line Minister will be responsible solely for amending an EU directive and legislation which should properly be scrutinised and passed by the House. It is extremely bad legislation and a bad precedent to establish. The Bill deserves to have a full and proper examination in the House, not just the subject of a one hour debate today.

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