Feargal Quinn (Independent)

I move amendment No. 12:

In page 9, between lines 1 and 2, to insert the following:

"(a) publish the draft development plan by electronic means;"

I have already spoken on this issue and the Minister has given me his views. Approximately eight or nine amendments have been tabled. Similar amendments were accepted to other Bills. It seems a shame not to accept them to this Bill. The intention is not enabling, but compelling. There is no question or doubt about whether the body will deal with the power it has to publish. I want to ensure it publishes material by electronic means. The Minister has said it is not his intention to accept these amendments. That is a shame because those involved in the digital hub area and those who wish to make legislation more accessible and the system work better must have this information. If someone wants it, he or she must buy a newspaper or get it in other ways.

I hope the Minister will accept amendment No.35 which reads: "published by electronic means by the Agency as soon as may be after the gift is accepted, and shall also be." The Minister has already said he foresees difficulties with publishing it by electronic means. We are living in the past if we do not recognise that it is easier, speedier and less costly to press a button and publish something which is already in a word processor. Of all the amendments tabled, the Minister should accept amendment No. 35 if only for the sake of recognising that this is a high priority area. We should recognise that the particulars about gifts which have been accepted will be published.

Publication by electronic means is the way of the future and the correct thing to do. We will amend such legislation in the future to include this because we do not know what type of publications will be available. We know that more citizens are using electronic means of gaining information. I urge the Minister to consider the amendments and insist that any new agency will publish particulars about gifts which have been accepted. I urge him to reconsider his views.