Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Opposition Deputies for the welcome they have given to the Bill and for their constructive discussion of it on Second Stage. Deputy O'Dowd said that he would like a more detailed discussion on Committee Stage and we can consider that. As is my wont, I will carefully consider each and every positive suggestion or constructive amendment and try to include as many as possible. I know that we can be partisan in the House at various times when discussing other matters but it is helpful if all sides, including the responsible Minister, approach legislation with an open mind and an appreciation that we may not get everything fully right in the first draft of a Bill.

See this speech in context