Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

On the Deputy's final question, the writ will be moved in due course. On the ethics legislation, it is a matter for the Whips to consider when it will be taken. Much priority legislation, including the Social Welfare Bill, Finance Bill and nursing homes Bill, will come before the House this session. On the health miscellaneous provisions Bill, the legislation has not yet come before Government and has to be prepared based on the decisions made the weekend before last. I do not see a reason for such a major gap between Stages as it will be a simple Bill. I presume it could be taken reasonably quickly because there is not much involved in it.

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