Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)

I understand the Ceann Comhairle's office has ruled out of order the amendments I submitted, amendments Nos. 37 to 42, inclusive, on the basis that they would pose a charge on the people. What I am trying to do here is to raise more revenue for the Minister and the State. It is a strange definition of the people in terms of posing a charge on them that levying an additional tax on an international Internet operator in Gambia or in Gibraltar would be regarded as a charge on the people.

I wonder, Sir, if I could address one or two of the issues involved for which, I suspect, there would be a fair hearing on the other side of the House? This involves the betting tax.

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