Brian Hayes (Fine Gael)

——to ensure the Minister comes before the House so that we have an explanation of this case. The Taoiseach looked into his conscience over the weekend and it won out. We had one position on Friday in terms of what the Taoiseach said and another position by Sunday afternoon. This is totally wrong and it undermines the independence of our excellent Civil Service. A statement from the Minister should be forthcoming at this time.

The Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform regularly chastises the other House, not so much this House, in respect of the progress of legislation. When is it intended that Committee Stage of the Garda Síochána Bill will be taken? This is important legislation, not least because of the Garda ombudsman and other matters. We need to work on the Bill on Committee Stage in order that the entire matter is resolved before the summer recess. When will Committee Stage of this important Bill be taken in the House, in the light of the comments of the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform about the speedy and efficient use of time to deal with legislation?