Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)

I thank all Senators for their participation and their comments on how accommodating I am. I do my best to listen to the arguments and I do not believe Senators are here to rubber stamp legislation. Senators had some valid arguments but, when I subsequently discussed the issues with my officials, it was clear why positions were adopted.

This is an important Bill and I hope it will be passed in Dáil Éireann as soon as possible. I thank all Senators, particularly those on the opposite side of the House, for their comments and input. I thank my officials for their sterling work on the legislation and the officials of the Seanad for the work they have done in allowing this Bill a smooth passage.

Question put and agreed to.

Sitting suspended at 5.10 p.m. and resumed at 6 p.m.