Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

I will answer the question but first, Deputy Bacik asked a question about the number of Irish citizens. I want to give the House the best information I have. When I came into this House, we had confirmed that 14 Irish citizens have been detained. I am aware that there are 16 Irish citizens in total but one of them may be a dual citizen so I think that might be where the 15-16 issue arises.

I am reluctant to give that commitment to Deputy Smith but not out of a lack of urgency around the occupied territories Bill. I am just conscious that the House goes into recess. I am conscious of budget week and that it is now October but I will work with Opposition parties and spokespeople to try to agree a timetable to advance this Bill. I am happy to do that with the Government Chief Whip. We do want to move this forward.

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