Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I understand we could complete the Child Care (Amendment) Bill without much difficulty based on the co-operative support of the Deputy and other Deputies. The other issue was raised earlier this morning in the context of changes to sub-contracting legislation. This is being dealt with in the Seanad at the moment and will come here. Unfortunately, it does not have retrospective effect as the Deputy is aware. The ongoing difficulties that arise specifically with regard to this matter and others throughout the country are matters about which we must continue to try to establish what can be done. There is a difficult legal situation in this case, as the Deputy is aware.

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