Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)

I apologise for delaying the House. These are minor technical amendments. Amendments Nos. 1 and 31 correct simple typographical errors in sections 2 and 48. The reference in section 2(3)(c) to section 68(1)(c) should have been to section 67(1)(b) and the reference at section 48(4)(c) regarding the nominated judge informing the witness of his or her right should be to section 49.

Amendment No. 2 seeks to correct the wording of section 3 in order that the meaning is fully clear. The revised text will provide that the assistance shall be refused if the Minister considers that providing assistance would prejudice the sovereignty, security or other essential interests of the State or would be contrary to public policy. The original wording was open to misinterpretation.