Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

I move amendment No. 15:

In page 5, between lines 4 and 5, to insert the following subsection:

"(2) An accused person is presumed to be fit to be ready to be tried unless the contrary is shown.".

The amendment is proposed to provide additional clarity and certainty. All persons should be presumed fit to stand trial until the matter of insanity is raised and adjudicated upon. The Minister should not have great difficulty with the amendment, as it is not contrary to the policy underpinning the Bill. I hope he will accept it.