Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The consolidation Bill is on a different timeline from the original Bill, No. 31. Consolidation, by definition, simply involves bringing together the existing legislative base, whereas the other Bill breaks some new ground. The latter legislation is due in late 2009 and presumably the consolidation Bill, which will be introduced in 2010, can take account of the new legislation and everything can be brought in under one omnibus Bill. Perhaps that is the thinking behind it. I will have the matter checked out.

The other two Bills about which the Deputy asked are due to be taken in late 2009. When considered at this remove I do not believe it is possible there will be an improvement in the timeline given the level of demands placed on the Office of the Attorney General at the moment.

On the Deputy's question regarding the World Health Organisation's view of the swine flu, which has the potential to become a pandemic, the WHO has raised its alert level to four. I understand there are six levels. The Minister for Health and Children has indicated that her Department will keep a watching brief. Its officials are interacting with international agencies on this matter at all times and keeping themselves informed of developments. They are also, in a considered manner, providing public information as required and as relevant.

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