Feargal Quinn (Independent)

Like Senator Ryan, I have no problem with the actual wording of the electronic terms. The area of which I am not sure is that mentioned by Senator Ryan. My intention all along was to make sure that it would be possible to have any of these details electronically published, but also to compel publication under certain circumstances. This is not dealt with in this section or in amendments Nos. 1 to 4, inclusive, and I would like the Minister's view on it at this stage. The reason I was a little late was that I was speaking at the Law Society offices at a very interesting conference on drafting legislation. The point I made was this: if we are to make sure legislation is not remote from citizens and that there is real democracy, legislation must be accessible. There is no better, easier, less costly or speedier way of making it accessible than through electronic media.

In the past when we asked that something be published, it could be published in Iris Oifigiúil or in a local or national newspaper. In certain circumstances we should insist that it be published electronically in order that someone who does not want to buy a newspaper or travel to inspect Iris Oifigiúil will find it accessible. We must compel, not just enable, publication in certain circumstances. Does the Minister accept that there must be a compulsion in the legislation for certain of the publications to be available in an electronic format? It is the modern way to do things, it is quicker, more open and accessible and costs much less.