Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

They certainly had the opportunity. We asked the CLRG, which involves business organisations as well as congress, trade unions and people in the legal profession, to consider this specific matter and revert to us with proposals. An effort was made to ensure that everyone with relevant expertise got an opportunity to be involved.

We have not been inundated by complaints about the structure that is being put in place. There is broad support. We all want this to be a cheaper and more effective resource. While I do not criticise the motivation behind the amendment, the route we are taking is sensible, reasonable and proportionate and will improve the environment, given the reasons that I outlined. However, it is not the end of the challenge that we face in this regard.

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