Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

It is not agreed. Last evening, the Criminal Justice Bill went through its final passage with whole sections of it not addressed. The Offences against the State Act is an important issue which comes up annually. We all know that it was signalled clearly in the Good Friday Agreement, and during its subsequent endorsement, that all oppressive legislation affecting North and South of this island would be revisited. I have no issue that the legislation will be discussed but it is imperative we allow for adequate debate.

Inadequate time is being provided and it is particularly apt given that the situation has changed markedly regarding these offensive Acts. The time allotted is grossly insufficient to address all matters concerned. Will the Taoiseach expand the time for the motion? I appeal to Members to have the courage to remove these offensive Acts from the Statute Book——

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