Derek McDowell (Labour)

This issue was discussed on Committee Stage when the Bill passed through the Dáil. If there is sufficient time for an explanation as to why there is not sufficient time, then there is sufficient time to do the job. Fine Gael proposed an amendment suggesting that an explanation be given as to why there was not enough time. Clearly, that is not practical.

I take some solace, however, in the phrase used by the Minister for Foreign Affairs today when he said that section 3 was intended to provide for exceptional circumstances. He was referring to confidentiality, but it is important that we emphasise that both the confidentiality and urgency opt-outs should only be used in exceptional circumstances. There is no specific time limit in the Bill and I am not sure whether one would be helpful.