Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)

The monetary limits specified in the Bill in relation to gifts and the monetary limits for ownership are the same as the limits in section 28 of the Transport (Railway Infrastructure) Act, 2001. I am convinced by some of the arguments made by Senators and I will look at it between now and Report Stage. If memory serves me correctly, the limit in relation to gifts in excess of €650 is analogous to the ethics in public office legislation and I am not sure if money was included in that. However, I fully agree with Senator Quinn that, regardless of the amount, money should not be accepted in any shape or form and that has always been my view in political life.

In relation to ownership of a proprietary interest in any business, I agree with Senator Ryan. A business related to the functions of the agency could have a book value well below €20,000 and still give the impression of being merely a shelf company but still have a huge turnover. I am concerned that the €20,000 limit is rather high and I will look at it again, though I cannot say I will come down to €1,000.