Joanna Tuffy (Labour)

I have similar reservations to those expressed by Senators Finucane and O'Toole. We are rushing important legislation through the House. This is particularly disrespectful to the Seanad, especially as the Dáil deemed it unacceptable to deal with this legislation yesterday. This legislation is a response to a mistake in legislation that has been enacted. While the Minister has said he wants to get it right this time, he is not going about it in the correct way. The Minister has often said that he found discussion in the Seanad to be useful. He has often accepted amendments proposed by Senators, particularly after reflection between Stages. Rushing through all Stages in one day makes a mockery of the Government's indication that it wants to enhance our role as legislators. Reflection is required between Stages. If a Senator makes a good point on a Committee Stage amendment, both the Senator and the Minister have the chance to consider the issue and table an enhanced amendment on Report Stage. This cannot be done if all Stages are taken in one day. I urge the Deputy Leader to consider this and ensure that we only deal with Second Stage today.