Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It seems to me that the Ceann Comhairle has charted a course himself in his opening comments. Following the voting on a number of tabled amendments last night, it would appear that they raise a discrepancy. Having regard to that discrepancy and arising out of what has been agreed here openly, I feel that the only manner in which these issues can now be addressed successfully is in the Seanad - by successfully, I mean in a way that ensures we have legislation which does not have the inconsistency or discrepancy which it has now.

I do not hold with Deputy Ryan's views. We will proceed to Second Stage in the Seanad. It will be open to Senators, at their discretion and in their wisdom, to table amendments in accordance with the established practice and procedures of the Seanad. It is reasonable to say that there will be amendments which may attempt to address the inconsistency. Any amendments agreed will be the subject matter of a report from the Seanad to the House at a later stage. I am inclined to agree with the Ceann Comhairle's comments.

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