John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

It would state in one of the sections that no cost is incurred by the Exchequer. The unusual feature of this Bill is that there are several Ministers involved and not just one. In other words, if we were discussing the Garda Síochána Bill, we would not need to put this stipulation into it because it is within the budget of the Garda Síochána and the Department. If we do not put it in here and if we change the Long Title to enable Ministers to make provisions without placing a restriction on them, they could spend whatever they like. Whether in disability or another area, this cannot happen. Disability is a worthy area but we cannot have a blank cheque in any area, however worthy.

We must remind ourselves about the commitment that has been evident. The Minister of State pointed out the figure of €2.9 billion, 7.5% of gross current public expenditure, which has increased three and a half times since 1997. The financial commitment is not in question because it has been demonstrated. It is a question of being practical. I do not like that this debate is being presented as rights versus resources. It is not a question of either rights or resources but rights and resources.