Michael McCarthy (Labour)

That is correct. As the interpretation of section 13(1)(b) now stands, it refers to a register in the State. However, if the wording, including the references to section 26 or 27, is applied, it does exactly what the Minister for Social and Family Affairs has just said and will inextricably link the wording of section 13(1)(b) with sections 26 and 27. The literal meaning of section 13(1)(b) is "in the State" and does not extend to outside it. Unless the reference is there, it does not necessarily link it to sections 26 and 27.