Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)

Last week, I was in Cork speaking to a conference which happened to coincide with a conference on gambling. I was surprised to learn from participants that the Minister's officials were telling all and sundry that I was responsible for the Minister not introducing legislation. Like the Minister, I have been in the House for a while and I did not appreciate my power. I am sorry I have not exercised it more frequently. I did not know I could hold up the Minister introducing a Bill. I might not agree with such a Bill but I am completely puzzled as to how I am holding up the Minister introducing it. I am surprised the Minister's officials decided to weigh into the political argument.

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