Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

As Deputy Rabbitte indicated, this is a complex area. A significant number of amendments are envisaged on Report Stage. I presume they arise from the debate on Second Stage and Committee Stage in terms of ensuring the legislation is robust enough to achieve its objectives. I understand the preparation of those amendments is close to finality. I acknowledge there may well be a significant number of amendments involved but sometimes when a valid point is raised it can have the effect of requiring ten similar repeat-type amendments to a Bill. The amendments arise from the debate on the Bill. It is good to see that the Minister intends to respond in kind to the points that were raised.

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