Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Acting Chairman and the Seanad officials for helping this Bill to be passed by the House in an expeditious manner. I thank Senators for their comments and their understanding that time is of the essence. This Bill needs to be passed by both Houses by the end of the year because the fund has been in place since 1 January last.

Can I respond to Senator Henry's comments about lying in bed when the Oireachtas was on "holidays"? I was discussing this Bill and related issues in Leinster House during that week when I received a telephone call from Joe Duffy's "Liveline" radio programme. I was asked to speak on the programme, but I said that I was too busy to do so because I was discussing broadcasting issues with my officials.

On the initiation of legislation in the Seanad, I regard the efficiency and the effectiveness of this House as a very good model for the Dáil. I often say to my officials that I like to initiate Bills in the Seanad because they are discussed thoroughly, particularly on a non-party basis. The good discussions in this House do not take place on a party political basis. Certain matters may have party political implications in the Dáil but there are good debates on legislation in this House.

I thank my officials for the work they did to put this Bill together, in conjunction with the Seanad officials.