Martin Mansergh (Tipperary South, Fianna Fail)

Yes, there is. In response to Deputy Ó Caoláin, we acknowledge the support Sinn Féin gave to the Bill, which I am sure was for broader strategic interests and the protection of the real economy. I understand the difficulties this may have caused.

While it is obviously the intention and expectation that any such motion on the scheme would be debated in the Houses of the Oireachtas and certainly in practice it will be, the amendment tabled last night was rejected because it would restrict the discretion of the Houses in the ordering and conduct of their business. That was, if one likes, a formal position. Deputy Quinn raised the issue that the Dáil will simply have the power to approve the scheme or not, and will not have the power to change it. That is the position.

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