Section 9, which makes provision for successive fixed-term contracts, is a key section of the Bill and was the subject of detailed discussion in both Houses. Senators will recall that on Committee Stage in the Seanad on 10 June, Senator O'Toole tabled an amendment which would, in effect, have capped the total aggregate period of fixed-term contracts at four years. My colleague, the Minister of State, Deputy Michael Ahern, undertook to have this proposed amendment examined in detail and to report back to the Seanad if any Government amendment was accepted on Committee Stage by the Dáil. In this regard, I wish to inform Senators that my Department has been in detailed consultation with the Office of the Chief Parliamentary Counsel as well as with both ICTU and IBEC on this issue.