Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)

On behalf of my colleague, Deputy Brian O'Shea, who is unavoidability absent due to illness, and on behalf of the Labour Party, I congratulate the Minister on the introduction of this legislation. During the referendum on the last Lisbon treaty we saw the problems generated by misinformation. The introduction of this Bill is very positive and will help to alleviate those. One never knows what clicks in the minds of people when they make decisions. However, the fact that this was introduced in September and was in place before the treaty made all the difference.

I refer to other matters related to the Defence Forces. This Bill will provide opportunities for many youngsters who join the Defence Forces to have access to modern equipment. We are approaching Christmas time and I realise the Minister has provided guarantees to the House previously in respect of communications between people overseas and their families. I trust such arrangements will be in place again this time. As in the case of the Minister of State, Deputy Áine Brady, I come from a constituency in which the Army plays a major part in the lives of so many people. It is only true and fair to say that we hear very little but that the Army has carried out its duties in a first class way in respect of communications, which is to be commended. We are approaching that time now and it is important such communication arrangements are put in place again. As Deputy O'Shea stated previously, we fully support the Bill and I congratulate the Minister for moving when he did and I am sure a positive result will emerge and this will help to ensure the Defence Forces will continue to serve with such distinction and determination overseas. This is a move for the better in respect of the Defences Forces.

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