Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

I appreciate what Senators said. This is a reflection of many concerns raised with me. In the majority of cases, there is no need for such a section. From speaking with colleagues in my party and other parties, I am satisfied that the vast majority of Deputies and Senators have a good working relationship and that there is no need for this provision. There are, in some cases, certain difficulties in regard to access. When one considers some of the people who raised these points, I understand why there might be difficulties in regard to accessing information. I included the amended section in order to clarify matters in regard to subsequent regulations.

The provision is sufficiently broad. As politicians, we have learned collectively that if we try to define everything we will end up trying to deal with local government through the Electoral Acts, etc. No one will be able to take action because the legislation will prevent them from doing so. There is a danger of going too far. I am pleased with the way in which Members, including Senator Bannon, responded to what is set out in the legislation. We will consider regulations subsequently. However, I will not introduce a tome of regulations because people operating at official level would begin consulting it to see what they can and cannot do. The provision works extremely well. This is a broad framework to keep everyone at local authority level aware of what is going on. I respect the Senator's perspective on the issue.

Amendment agreed to.