Feargal Quinn (Independent)

I was reminded that the introduction of this Bill provides Members with an opportunity to table amendments and make proposals, and it is good to see its introduction.

I also thank Senator Brian Hayes for referring to my request to hold a debate on energy. I will use my Private Member's time next week to facilitate a discussion on the Government's energy strategy. Regardless of whether this includes nuclear energy, this will provide Members with an opportunity to discuss the issue. It will also provide the Government with an opportunity to outline its views in this regard. I was impressed with the information imparted by Senator O'Toole in respect of the proposal to connect windfarms throughout Europe. I had not heard of it.

I also wish to support Senator Ryan's call for a debate on labelling non-food products. In Europe, we insist that food products imported from every country in Europe are labelled. It would be a useful debate because there is a strong view that we should not insist that every product, be it a cap, shirt or hat, be labelled with the country of origin. Such labelling is used by many countries as a protectionist policy to try to avoid the Internal Market which we are trying to create in Europe. Hence, I would welcome the opportunity to have such a debate in the near future.