Colm Burke (Cork North Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I raise this matter because concerns have been expressed to me that there may be a need for legislation in the context of this scheme. In that regard, I am concerned about the timeframe we have to pass any such required legislation, with this House only sitting for another three weeks, and likewise with Seanad, which any Bill would also have to go through. The issue here is whether we need legislation. If we do, the problem will be that we may not be able to implement the programme and this scheme in August this year. Therefore, it is important that clarification is provided regarding this matter.

On the other hand, if it is not a matter of legislation, what progress has been made in respect of regulations? Again, regulations cannot be drafted overnight. It takes time to do that, and some support from a legal perspective as well. Where are we with this endeavour and when will we get a definitive answer from the Department on this matter? If we are still uncertain about the issue of legislation and regulations, how can we plan an information programme in the context of the implementation of this scheme? Therefore, some clarification is needed. I ask that the Department respond to me at a very early stage next week to confirm whether this scheme will be undertaken via regulations or legislation. If it is legislation, I would like clarification on the timeframe for bringing that forward and for introducing the Bill into this House.

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