Tom Kitt (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)

I accept the point made by the Deputy with regard to some of the language used. We will refer to that later as a Fine Gael Deputy has put down an amendment on language. We have given an assurance that we will deal with that at the appropriate time. However, for legal certainty, some of the legislation has rather archaic language. The Deputy mentioned the Slave Trade Act 1824. For legal reasons we must leave that Act on the list, but we will deal with it in further work on this type of legislation in the years to come. We will, for example, insert the Slave Trade Act 1824, into Schedule 1. The reason is that this Act was previously treated as repealed. However, on further analysis of the repealing provision, it has become clear that this was not a full repeal. It is not suitable for repeal as its remaining provisions may have continuing relevancy to criminal law.

That is the legal position and that is the advice I have received. There are other similar examples. I suggested that this area would be an interesting area for students of law and students in general. I accept the points made by the Deputy. It is obvious this is an ongoing piece of work that will be undertaken by others long after us. We are getting rid of much of the deadwood. Some Acts are being retained for legal reasons.

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