Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)

I will first address the issue of the NRB, which was also raised by Deputy Jan O'Sullivan. This has been the subject of litigation on the part of one individual. There is nothing in this legislation that affects a person's constitutional rights. Clearly, people have an opportunity to vindicate those rights, through the labour relations machinery of the State and also through the courts. If the Deputies wish, I can provide a brief to them on the wider issues that apply. That body was dissolved in 2000 and I was not Minister for Health and Children at the time. I am not as familiar with the issues as, perhaps, one of my predecessors might be, but I will be happy to have my officials provide a briefing for the Deputies.

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