Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

It is difficult to return to a debate when so much has happened in the interim. Last week I commended the Minister on his handling of the Bill. There has been a growing acceptance of many of the points which he put forward in it. There has been much comment this morning on the proposed constitutional amendment in relation to asylum seekers. However, that is a another day's debate.

The Bill contains many fresh and imaginative proposals, in particular, the provision relating to policing at local level and involvement in that regard by civilians and others. It also provides that the commissioner will be the Accounting Officer for the force, which is to be welcomed. The question most asked of Departments is, who spends the money? A person given responsibility for a budget must prioritise how he or she utilises that money. When given specific responsibilities, people are better able to deal with matters and often engage in good housekeeping.

I commend the Bill and thank the Minister for attending the debate today. We look forward to Commitee and Remaining Stages and to its passage through the Dáil.