Thomas Pringle (Donegal, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The key issue is to have a date for implementation. I acknowledged in my opening statement the fact the Minister delayed the introduction of the Bill due to the concerns of the Opposition. However, even with that delay built-in, did the Government sit on its hands and wait for legislation to be passed? A lot of things could have been done to get this implemented. People are waiting for this. I know the Minister is aware of that and that he is concerned about it, but people have been waiting a long time. They have watched this process taking place but they do not know what is happening. I urge the Minister to forward the correspondence to me as well, if he does not mind. I would appreciate that as it is important.

I realise the Minister wants commencement to happen but all the legislation should come into effect urgently. Too often we see legislation passed without its being commenced. That is a big problem.

The Opposition has problems in that the legislation does not go far enough. That was fleshed out during the scrutiny process. To see how the arrangements will operate, we need all the legislation enacted and people to be able to avail of the services and determine what they can actually get. I look forward to it. I hope that, before too long, the Minister will announce a date and that we will see progress.

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