This Bill is very short but urgent. It must be enacted by 1 November 2003, the date on which the increased limits come into effect internationally. It is in the interest of both contributors and potential victims that the deadline be met. In the event of an accident off our coasts, the increased limits would apply only if our legislation were in line with that which applied internationally. On the other hand, if an incident occurred which affected a state whose legislation gave effect to the increased limits, Irish contributors would be required to pay towards meeting the extra costs involved. In the circumstances, I am asking the Seanad to deal with the Bill as expeditiously as possible. I will be making a similar request of the Dáil. I look forward to hearing Senators' contributions and have no hesitation in commending the Bill to the House.