Michael McNamara (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I wish to make a point of order. I may be incorrect on the matter but I ask the Acting Chairman to rule on it nonetheless. Parts of this Bill involve a draw on the Exchequer. A money message was provided when the Bill initially went through Committee Stage but there were many amendments made. There was a new Part 3 introduced with regard to high-risk vendors etc. Anything the Minister does under that measure will involve a cost to the Exchequer because compensation will be payable in accordance with the optional protocol to the European Convention on Human Rights. The Netherlands, among other countries, has acknowledged that. We are implementing similar procedures here.

The digital hub elements were also introduced after completion of Committee Stage. My understanding is that no subsequent money message was provided for the Bill. I may be wrong on that and would welcome clarification. If it is the case, I do not see how this Bill can proceed at this stage without a money message to cover the costs that would accrue from the amendments made on Committee Stage. I do not believe there was a subsequent money message but I am open to correction.

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