Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

In relation to the defective block legislation, I was only made aware today that it had not been circulated to Members until 10 a.m. That is not a matter I can control, but I heard it was only circulated at 10 a.m. All I can do is apologise. I do not know why that was the case. It is not normally the case. That is the first thing I will say. We are taking Second Stage of the remediation legislation this evening. There is quite a lot of time allowed for it, 204 minutes plus ten minutes' wrap, which is over three and a half hours. The amendments will not be discussed until the following week. The amendments are not being taken during this debate, so I propose we continue. This is a really important piece of legislation. We want to have it done before Christmas so that it can be enacted as soon as possible. It was not published and I do not know why Members did not receive it before 10 a.m., but I will try to find out. All I can do is apologise in that regard. Notwithstanding that, I ask for Members' forbearance.

In respect of the occupied territories Bill, the Minister, Deputy McEntee, answered questions on the floor of the House last week. She made it clear what her response was and articulated that she was proceeding with the Bill.

On expanding various different sittings, I can only work with the Ministers and the situation is clear. One of them is adjourned until tomorrow and one will be completed.

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