Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

This matter was dealt with adequately on Committee Stage. It is better not to anticipate the views of applicant countries. Many steps have to be taken before we increase the number of countries involved and there will be ample opportunity to bring forward amending legislation to allow for that expansion. There will also be an opportunity for the Department to review the operation of the Bill at that stage. There is merit in not accepting Senator Tuffy's amendment, although I understand the point she is trying to make. She appears to be anticipating that her party will be in Government at some future time and acceptance of the amendment will avoid the necessity of it having to bring a Bill before the House.