Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)

There are two points in this regard. In the event that the United States acceded to the convention, this would be an important section as a matter of practicality.

On the point the Senator raised on the section, there is cast upon the Minister a legal obligation. Therefore, there is no suggestion that in refusing this amendment we are seeking to exclude the jurisdiction of the courts – far from it. The courts would always have jurisdiction in a matter of this character were the Minister to be in breach of his duties but the point made is that this matter is addressed at an administrative stage on receipt of the request and before it has proceeded to a judicial phase. That is the form of the legislation which is in accordance with our practice in analogous statutory provisions.

Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.

Section 22 agreed to.

Sections 23 to 29, inclusive, agreed to.

Schedule agreed to.

Title agreed to.

Bill reported without amendment.