Frank Fahey (Galway West, Fianna Fail)

I thank all the Senators who have contributed to this interesting debate, in which many pertinent issues were raised. The debate in this House has contributed to this excellent legislation. For far too long policies and accounts which have lain dormant have been of no benefit to anybody other than the insurance companies in which they are held. The companies concerned will now divest themselves of dormant accounts, thus making money available to benefit the community at large through community and social programmes. It is also noteworthy that a significant sum is being and will be reclaimed by consumers through this and previous legislation.

This has been a good day's work. I thank, in particular, officials of the Department of Finance who have been most helpful and provided us with exceptional legislation. I also thank the Minister for Finance, Deputy McCreevy, who, unfortunately, could not attend the debate as he is abroad. I thank Senators for passing the Bill.