Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)

This Bill was not of the Government's choosing. We found ourselves in a situation which required action and we have been responsible in the manner with which we have dealt with the issue. There was no option but to pass this legislation before Christmas. I thank all the Members who have facilitated the Government in making this possible. I wish to pay thanks to the staff of the Department of Health and Children for their hard work and dedication. They have put in many hours and burned a lot of midnight oil this week in making everything possible. Much of this work is carried out behind the scenes and few people are aware of it. I wish to acknowledge their contribution to the democratic process.

I wish the Acting Chairman, officials of the Department and Members of both Houses a very happy Christmas and good health in the year ahead. Go raibh maith agaibh.