Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

The importance of the Second Stage debate is demonstrated. The issues were raised by Senators previously. Senator O'Meara and her colleagues tabled amendments that were the same as my amendments Nos. 14 and 15. I acknowledge her kind words about our officials. I asked them to provide the briefing material because of the major changes that have been made. The Senator suggests that we should have perhaps withdrawn the Bill, but the end product will be much the same, and we will possibly get there more quickly. It was important that Senators received a full, comprehensive brief.

Amendments Nos. 14 and 15 are similar in that respect. I am pleased that we were able to accommodate Senator O'Meara and her colleagues. Senator Kenneally also raised the issues at the time. The Senators are as familiar with the issues as I am, so there might not be any need to go into more detail, except to say that, given changes in technology, it was important that the 2.5 m threshold was removed. I am glad that there isunanimity on that.