Michael McCarthy (Labour)

Even if the Supreme Court upholds the High Court decision, I urge caution in this regard, because we are dealing here with a powerful European instrument. If this State were to violate the European Convention on Human Rights, it would be shameful. I accept that the Minister is following due legal process on this, but it is only a matter of time before the European Court of Human Rights will rule that this country is in dereliction of its duty, despite having signed up to the convention and having fulfilled obligations thereunder. Even if the Minister will not accept the amendment, I urge her to be cognisant of the situation. If the Supreme Court upholds the High Court ruling, what action will the Minister take?