Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I am not aware of any such promised legislation. I cannot comment on the case with which the courts dealt yesterday. It is important that we should tackle these matters in the cold light of day and not in the context of the specific tragic cases being dealt with by the courts. We should not say anything here which might impinge upon the independence of the courts' adjudication on these matters. I am not aware of any specific legislation in this area.

As stated earlier, I do not accept the precipitative and serious conclusion drawn by Deputy Kenny. Such conclusions should not be bandied about in the House, particularly when one considers that discussions are ongoing. It is, therefore, a matter for the Whips to decide what business will be taken next week.

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