Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

I agree. We have done that with a number of Bills over the past few years. Some Departments seem a little reluctant to engage in this process. I have been pressing for more Departments to do it. It was of great assistance in the case of the Broadcasting (Amendment) Bill 2006. There was a broad process of consultation not just within the Oireachtas, but also within the interested groups. It will improve the legislation that comes before the House. There will probably be far fewer issues than there would be if Bills were not considered in this way.

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