Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)

Last Thursday, in the Taoiseach's absence, I raised the nursing homes Bill with the Tánaiste. I understood from his reply that the Bill would be published this Thursday and would be first taken in the Seanad and then completed in the Dáil prior to Christmas. I made it clear to the Tánaiste that the arrangement would not be acceptable to the Labour Party because complex and sensitive issues are at stake which require time and attention. I understand a statement was made today to the effect that the Bill will not now be published this week and, by implication, a longer period of time will be allowed for its consideration. Can the Taoiseach indicate the arrangements for the publication and taking of the nursing homes Bill and can he give an assurance it will not be rushed through the House before Christmas?

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