John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)

——fits in with the core functions of the National Library.

I thank Senator Ryan for his efforts but I have to say that the newly-appointed board of the NLI must be allowed to fulfil its role and functions in matters related to genealogy and heraldry. I realise the Senator has worked extremely hard on the Bill and has put much effort into it, which should not go without acknowledgement. I note what he has stated about the matter resurfacing again if it is voted down, and he is unquestionably correct in that. Although it is a very specialised area, those concerned with it have a great interest. As a man said, when they have an opinion, they have an opinion.

Rather than see the Bill voted down, I would prefer if the Senator agreed, after an informed debate, to withdraw the legislation so the issues raised within the Bill can be considered by the statutory board of the National Library. I will undertake to go to the board with the legislation and ask it to give the issue very careful consideration. It would not be right to second guess a new institution so soon after its establishment. I would like the board to have the opportunity of carefully considering Senator Ryan's Bill. The Senator may be aware that the chairperson of the National Library is Mr. Gerry Danaher, an eminent senior counsel who may have some ideas from his own background with regard to how matters might proceed.

Although I am not accepting the legislation, I acknowledge the work which has gone into it and the motivation for it. I know of Senator Ryan's deep interest and understanding of our culture. Déanaim comhghairdeas leis an Seanadóir arís. Tá mé buíoch de as ucht an méid oibre a chuir sé isteach sa Bhille seo.