Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)

Precisely. The gentleman in the wheelchair replied, "You may but I am off to Lourdes." Miracles have often figured in the courts and Mr. Saunders was not the first to benefit from them.

This Bill is overdue and every aspect of it requires careful thought. I am encouraged by the tone and content of the contributions today to feel that Committee Stage will be very useful, and that if we do not wreck the Bill by making it too fussy – remember that it has to be durable – we will improve it substantially. The Bill is overdue but will bring about worthwhile change. I appreciate the comments that were made and look forward to Committee Stage.

Question put and agreed to.

Committee Stage ordered for Wednesday, 26 February 2003.

Sitting suspended at 4.35 p.m. and resumed at 6p.m.