Martin Mansergh (Fianna Fail)

The decision has been taken in that regard but when these matters come up in the future, Ministers should pay more attention to proper process and to the fact that this affects the public's confidence in legislation. If the public sees legislation being rushed through the Houses, particularly legislation on important and sensitive areas, it can undermine confidence. I do not in the least dispute the need for urgency and speed in this regard, and I have not heard that disputed by either side of the House. This legislation was to have been completed this week but it will not be completed until the end of next week. It is a pity we were not able to use the time available to better advantage. While supporting the principle of the Bill, I cannot give a blanket endorsement to details which I have not yet had proper time to study. However, the message about process should be taken back to Ministers. It is important they pay attention to the Seanad and the Dáil and give Parliament reasonable time to consider important and urgent legislation such as this.