Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

He has always been ready to ensure that legislation goes through in a speedy fashion. I commend the senior officials from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment who have put a lot of work into this Bill. This is a very complex area and Members may not realise that our senior civil servants are extremely competent and capable. It was my experience when I was in the Department that they knew all about consumer affairs. In the complex world of the European Union and international trading it is very important that we have enforceable legislation.

I wish the Bill well in the other House. The Minister is anxious to have it passed before the Easter recess. When it returns to this House, Senator Coghlan will give it his immediate attention and approval as will the Leader of the House. We are conscious that the Bill is vital for consumer protection. The agency has been set up but it is toothless without this legislation.

I thank the Leas-Chathaoirleach and the other spokespersons for their co-operation and assistance.