Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

I find myself broadly in sympathy with the points made by Opposition Members. It is important that there is time between Second Stage and Committee Stage to allow Members to table amendments. This is a general practice which should be exercised. I agree with Senator O'Toole that this is something the CPP might consider and raise with Departments in order to put in place a code of practice.

Having said that, we must recognise that there will be occasions when exceptions will have to be made and this instance may be one of them. I understand that the judgment on this issue may be due today. This would mean that the Aliens Order 1946 would be struck down and other aspects that were not part of the court's consideration could also be open to serious challenge. The issue impinges on our sovereignty and our exercise of it.