John Minihan (Progressive Democrats)

I echo the comments of the preceding speakers on congratulating the Minister and his officials on bringing forward this Bill. It is worth noting that the military authorities themselves took the initiative to bring their own legal system into line with best international practices. They are to be congratulated in this regard. It is rare that we have defence legislation in the House and I believe this is the second such Bill in the lifetime of the Government. We have had the Ombudsman legislation and now we have this comprehensive legislation. Those of us who had an opportunity on Second and Committee Stages to examine the legislation can certainly vouch for and endorse its merits. I congratulate the Minister and his officials for drafting the legislation. I join with previous speakers in hoping it goes through the Dáil before the general election in order that it is enacted in the short term.

I again take the opportunity to congratulate the Minister and the Defence Forces, including its personnel both at home and overseas who play such a vital role in defending this State and make a major contribution on the international stage in respect of peacekeeping. We do not get ample opportunity to acknowledge their service and it is only at times such as this, when there is legislation before the Oireachtas, that we can do that. I am sure my fellow Senators will join me in extending congratulations to all concerned. Go raibh maith agaibh.