Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)

I acknowledge Deputy O'Shea has indicated he is withdrawing his amendment. However, as this is the final amendment, perhaps I might clarify a matter with the Minister of State. A difficulty may arise in regard to people currently in the system. The Minister of State referred to this issue in the context of an earlier amendment.

With particular reference to the King's Inns, there are people who may have failed the examination and are required to resit it whose position can be contrasted with persons who may have practised in Northern Ireland for three years, may be Irish citizens from the Republic and may have a competency in Irish, but are not required to sit the examination. There may be only a small number of people, perhaps a handful, who have not reached the degree of competency to pass the examination but are still required under the manner in which they entered the school to complete the examination. I hope these people are not caught.

Deputy O'Shea raised this issue on Committee Stage and the Minister said he would take a look at it. The Minister of State has also indicated that he will take a look at it. It is an important issue. The Department may wish to contact the educational authorities to ensure fair play obtains and that people, because of the wording of this legislation, are not discommoded or caught out.

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