The 1956 debate was a very interesting one. Despite the clear misgivings expressed at that time, most notably by the former Deputy Frank Aiken, the original provision was allowed to stand. The main argument in its favour was that it was inconceivable that any Minister would use this power other than very rarely and in an appropriate manner. We all know that later events proved that this argument was wrong. Everyone's prime concern in the late 1980s was the creation of jobs. It was suggested, perhaps by the IDA, that inward investment could be attracted to the country in return for offering Irish citizenship to the promoters of that investment. When people examined this matter they discovered, no doubt to their surprise, that no legislation was needed to start such a scheme. Regulations by means of a statutory instrument were not needed. Those involved could start a passports for sale scheme overnight, provided that they relied on the "Irish associations" provision in section 16.