Michael Ahern (Cork East, Fianna Fail)

We are not in Britain. Senator Quinn raised the issue of brokering, saying the Bill does not cover the whole remit of military goods. This Bill covers all military and dual-use goods. He also made a distinction between residents of the State and citizens, a point we will consider before Committee Stage.

Senator Norris mentioned the Timoney armoured personnel carrier. These are used for peaceful purposes, not to promote war. He also raised the issue of dual-use goods and the need to seek assurances about civilian end use but, as I explained, that area is monitored. He asked about a code of conduct and there is one in place.

Senator White correctly pointed out Ireland's history. It is right that we remind ourselves and others that we are unique in comparison with many other countries operating in this area in that our approach is quite different. That is why we are trusted more than countries that were colonisers. We were one of the few white colonised nations of the world.

Senator Mooney asked about analysis and costings. We carried out the regulatory impact assessment referred to in my speech. The approach taken in the Bill looks at all aspects and goes through the necessary assessments to ensure we get value for money.

I look forward to discussing the Bill in more detail on Committee Stage and I thank my officials for their comprehensive briefing. The Bill will stand up to scrutiny and I commend it to the House.