Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Minister's amendment is well thought out, comprehensive and deals with people's concerns. The Opposition does not like the fact that the Minister has dealt with the issue. It has decided to approach the Constitution in a clumsy manner. Some people call this a so-called Parliament. The Opposition would dilute the powers of the Constitution and erode what it is supposed to be about, namely, protecting the citizens and fundamentals of democracy. It is not supposed to usurp the role of the Parliament or the Executive. That is why the amendment proposed by the Minister is good and why I will support it.

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