Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank all Deputies for contributing. I stayed for as long as I possibly could, as I try to do on legislation I am sponsoring myself. I also heard most of the contributions I was not physically present for, in so far as that was possible. Some thoughtful contributions were made, by and large supportive of the legislation, but obviously wanting to touch on extraneous matters that are not captured by this particular legislation and about which quite clearly some Members, and certainly former members of political parties, have very strong views. I am cognisant of that aspect. I know some people argue with passion but, if I have a different view, it does not mean that I am wrong. It just means that I have a different perspective. Where I do disagree with Deputies, I respect their views, which were well-presented by a number of Deputies on a range of issues during the course of this debate.

For the record, I want to highlight again the main thrust of the Bill, focusing on its three aspects. First, it is important to say what the Bill is about because much of the debate focused on things the Bill is not about. We will reduce the amount paid under the parliamentary activities allowance, which was the old party leaders allowance, by 10%. This was an amendment that came from the Seanad and which I accepted. This will mean that, for the first time since it was introduced in 1938, this allowance will be reduced. If one thinks backs to 1938, we have come through fairly rough economic times in this country in terms of general standards of living, even given the awfulness of the last few years. However, this is the first time we have ever reduced the party leaders allowance, which is important.

Second, we will require full----

See this speech in context