Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

I strongly support Senator Frances Fitzgerald's opposition to the Order of Business for all the reasons she has advanced and for all the proper reasons outlined by Senators O'Toole and Alex White. We must admit that the appointment of a political personage to the Standards in Public Office Commission shows no regard for due process and appears high-handed. When the former Deputy and Minister, Liam Kavanagh, was appointed we had consultation and debate and reached agreement in both Houses. It will be sad if that is not attempted this time.

Regarding the Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill and the question of ministerial orders, we all like to hear the advice of the Attorney General when it is considered right that it be given. I have no doubt his advice is correct but if there is a legal flaw, as appears to be the case, can the Leader tell us how this affects boards and agencies set up in other Departments? For example, those under the auspices of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government may also be at risk.

The transition period on the deferment of water charges seems to be somewhat indefinite so the Leader might give an indication of how long it will be. Are these charges retrospectively illegal? This is a serious legal matter that affects local authorities that have already levied and issued charges to schools and so on. Local authorities are currently debating their budgets; what position will this leave them in? I would like the Leader to address this.