Rónán Mullen (Independent)

I accept such a scenario is difficult to imagine. The provision in the equivalent British legislation to the effect that the relevant Minister should be subject to judicial review is more sensible.

I compliment Senator Bacik on drafting this Bill and bringing it before the Seanad. The effort to enshrine in legislation our commitment to taking a lead is very laudable, even if our contribution to solving this global problem is minuscule. This is, however, an example of the law acting as an educator. In the past we have often been informed that the law is a blunt instrument when it comes to solving problems which have an extra-territorial dimension and which are, therefore, beyond the power of our law to change. I commend Senator Bacik on the approach she has taken. The basis of her approach is to ensure that although our laws can do little enough to change a global problem, they can be used to set a powerful moral lead it is to be hoped will be followed by other countries.