Michael Kitt (Fianna Fail)

In reply to Senator Brian Hayes, I share the views of Senator Ryan on this matter. If one considers the dangers of lapsing legislation, leaving aside the views of the Attorney General on constitutional issues, the argument would fall on examining the issue from a more positive perspective. As the Senator rightly acknowledged, we are considering revision of all the legislation and getting rid of pre-1922 legislation where necessary. Much work is going on within my Department in that area.

On the specific question about legislation, there is provision in specific Acts for a review. From that perspective, if there is legislation appropriate for review, it should include that review provision. This is the best way to go about the matter. I take note of what the Senator said. I will relay his views to the great team of officials in the Taoiseach's Department who are examining the broader legislative programme to try to modernise legislation. This is as far as I can go in this debate.