Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister of State, the Tánaiste who provided an overview of the Bill at the outset and departmental officials. I omitted to mention that the Bill, which I described as being like the proverbial curate's egg, was in gestation for a short period. While I outlined its negative aspects, I welcome it in an overall sense as a measure that takes us out of the Dark Ages, as someone else said. It is a worthwhile improvement. I explained on behalf of my colleagues, rather than as a result of any personal sense of upset, that certain commitments appeared to have been given. I thought that Senator Leyden might make a proposal or suggestion in relation to ex gratia payments that would have taken me and perhaps all Senators out of a hole.