Trevor Sargent (Dublin North, Green Party)

The Green Party opposes the manner in which this Bill is being taken, not least because taking it on Friday without a vote is an insult to the intention of the legislation, as well as to this House. Hiving it off on to a day where it is understood that many Deputies will be here but unable to vote is an insult to the parliamentary process. I wonder whether the Taoiseach and the Tánaiste are serious about this legislation or whether they are slightly embarrassed by it, want to keep it under the radar and not have it too closely scrutinised so Friday seems to suffice for that.

It does not suffice for proper parliamentary scrutiny, particularly when the amendments must be submitted before the end of Second Stage. This really does indicate that it is designed not to be properly scrutinised but to be somehow railroaded through. This is an insult to the House and the people.

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