Dinny McGinley (Donegal South West, Fine Gael)

I thank Members for their constructive contributions. The Minister for Defence, Deputy Shatter, will respond to the issues raised on Committee and Report Stages. The Bill will further enhance the measures implemented to date by the Defence (Amendment) Act 2007. It is also necessary to address the issues identified subsequent to the enactment of the Defence (Amendment) Act 2007.

The measures included in the Bill are proactive in the context of providing for an efficient and effective system of military discipline within the Defence Forces. In that regard, I am of the view that they will be welcomed by all members of the Defence Forces.

On my behalf and that of the Minister for Defence, Deputy Alan Shatter, I thank Members for their instructive and helpful contributions. I am sure the debate on Committee Stage will be equally as constructive as that in which we have just engaged.

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