Áine Brady (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)

I am sorry but I cannot say when it will come before the Dáil. Deputy McCormack will have to check with the Whips.

The Deputy will appreciate that this type of legislation is very complex and it is important that the final Bill is robust and effective. The Government recognises the good work the Senator has done in introducing the Bill and is working closely with him in developing appropriate amendments with a view to Committee Stage taking place in the Seanad before Christmas.

Our joint aim is to have a new system which will reduce the non-payment exposure of subcontractors and provide an effective remedy for them should non-payment occur. The Bill is being formulated with the aim of achieving this without placing an unnecessary regulatory or cost burden on the parties to the dispute, other parties involved in the project, or the State. We must strike the right balance between improving the position of construction subcontractors and safeguarding the position of the taxpayer.

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