Brian Hayes (Fine Gael)

This is an historic occasion and a unique opportunity. It is the first time in the lifetime of this Seanad that Members have had an opportunity to debate legislation introduced under a unique parliamentary and legislative device, the Private Bill. When I attempted to discover the distinction between a Private Bill and a public Bill, I was informed that a public Bill involves the population at large, whereas a Private Bill involves bodies incorporated by charter. I understood we had declared a republic in the late 1940s. Delving into our history has certain historical resonances.

I thank the sponsors of the legislation for the deliberate way in which they attempted to inform colleagues on all sides of its importance to the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and for their co-operation and courtesy to us all in advancing the purpose behind the legislation.