Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The Ombudsman Bill is such a Bill. I presume I can, with the consent of the leader of the Labour Party, drop it from the list, if that is the logical outcome of this interaction.

The Chief Whip is anxious, with the co-operation of Ministers, to make sure the list is an accurate reflection of what will be possible during the coming term. There is a huge amount of legislation in various stages of preparation and much work is ongoing. It is for the Government to prioritise legislation. It might not correlate with the priorities of Members of the House but that is the privilege of government. The list should be an accurate reflection of what is possible within the terms of the administration so that Opposition spokespersons, as well as Ministers and Departments, can apply their time most effectively.

I cannot give a direct answer to Deputy Higgins's question on the foreshore legislation. I will ask the line Minister to communicate with him.

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