Joe O'Toole (Independent)

I move amendment No. 2:

In page 5, between lines 6 and 7, to insert the following:

"1.–The long title of the Principal Act is amended by substituting "PERSONS". for "MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC".

I welcome the Minister for Finance. I made remarks similar to those of Senator McDowell, in relation to the Minister's trip to Cheltenham, on a previous occasion. I have many differences with the Minister, but I can confirm that I have had many meetings with him before 8 a.m. and after midnight. His trip to Cheltenham, which he was perfectly entitled to make, should not be seen as a reflection on his work rate. The time off he took was no more than time in lieu of his efforts and was never an issue for me. I defend the Minister in that regard. Last week's debate was diminished by the references to Cheltenham. As I said to the Minister privately, however, he needed to be in this House for Committee Stage of the Bill, just as one ensures that one's important business is conducted when one is available. My belief that the Minister should have been here last week to deal with the Bill is separate to the Cheltenham issue.