Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

I welcome the passing of the Bill. I thank the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy Michael McDowell, and the Minister of State, Deputy Brian Lenihan, for their comprehensive responses to the points raised and amendments tabled. Many of the amendments were tabled because the Bill is predicated on the fact that the Constitution takes precedence. It was an extremely interesting debate and the Opposition applied itself well to the amendments. I commend Members on their efforts in that regard.