Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

I thank Opposition Members for their patience on this matter. It was discussed through the night and the Cabinet discussed it for a considerable period of time during our deliberations in the morning and early afternoon. Further redrafting had to take place to ensure the Bill that comes before the House is the best Bill. It is appropriate that we afford people who want to participate in the debate the time to reflect on the legislation between now and 9 p.m. Equally, it is important to advise the House that it would be our hope that we could complete this legislation but it will be a matter for the House to determine the time necessary for that discussion. I am led to believe the Whips will meet now and I am sure they can come to some agreement on the length of time they would expect the debate to continue.

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