Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am aware that some of Deputy Daly's other amendments were ruled out of order. I give her a commitment that it had nothing to do with me or my civil servants. They have reassured me of that. With regard to amendment No. 8, making a clear link between the recognition of Irish Sign Language and the right of users to free interpretation is a positive thing. I do not see the advantage of removing the word "corresponding" and I am not sure why the Deputy is making that proposal. The link is a good idea and should be retained in the Bill.

I am advised the second part of the amendment is unnecessary. It can be taken as a statement of fact and contains nothing to which I would object. It does not contain any new obligation or duty on anyone or confer any new rights. The advice my Department has received from the Attorney General's office is that words in legislation should, in layman's language, have a job to do, should mean something in terms of clarifying a process or creating a duty or a right. This text does not do that and is therefore unnecessary. In light of the advice I have received, perhaps Deputy Daly might agree not to press the amendment.

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