Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This is a very important Bill. I agree with both Deputies. It is absolutely critical that we move forward on this from a public health point of view. It is on Committee Stage in the Seanad and the Government wants to ensure that it is passed this term and I hope the discussions can continue again very soon. The Minister of State has been considering some elements of the Bill. I am not in a position to say precisely whether changes will be introduced. Several points have been made about some elements of the Bill which it was felt would be unduly punitive, particularly for small enterprises. She is examining that. I agree that, given the principles behind the Bill and the general approach it is taking, it is important that we see it on the Statute Book as soon as possible.

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