Pádraig Mac Lochlainn (Donegal North East, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I am happy to withdraw amendments Nos. 39 and 41 as I accept the points made about the independence of the authority.

What the Minister of State, Deputy Dara Murphy, stated about amendment No. 40 is encouraging. Of course, there will be human resources challenges, pensions issues and such changes, but undoubtedly there would be a desire on the part of the Law Society and the Bar Council that the professional staff who work for them would continue to be in employment. If the same will was on the side of the Government and the relevant Departments, I believe that this can be facilitated. It is common sense and it is also just and fair. There is no question regarding the professionalism or integrity of those who have worked in this sphere and it would be great to have that pool of skills available to a new authority.

If the Government is indicating that it will bring forward amendments in the Seanad that would facilitate this, I will withdraw the amendment in good faith. I do so only on the basis that when this comes before the Seanad, there will be a firm proposition on the table rather than a sense that it is being worked on.

With respect, they have had a long time to work on this matter. I am disappointed that there is not a firm proposal today, stating clearly that this issue is being addressed. However, the language is encouraging. I will withdraw the amendment if I am given an assurance that there will be a firm proposition on the table in the Seanad.

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