Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

I agree with the amendment tabled by Senator Brian Hayes and I support the comments of many colleagues, especially those of Senator Tuffy. The Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform got it badly wrong last week on this issue. Children are at risk as we speak and we need the loophole in the law to be addressed immediately. Last year emergency legislation was introduced to deal with leases for land in the IDA system. It was passed through the House in a matter of hours. This can be dealt with and should be dealt with. The people will demand nothing less from us. This matter must be addressed today because we are speaking about innocent children. I hope the Government will give the matter the urgency it requires.

Senator Maurice Hayes made very good points about the Law Reform Commission. Many of these reports are simply lying on desks and are not being given any consideration. It is time that we addressed the issue. I agree with him that the Seanad may be the appropriate forum to discuss such Law Reform Commission reports. I call on the Leader to address the matter in the hope that some of those reports can be addressed in the House.