Michael Kitt (Galway East, Fianna Fail)

While what Senators Quinn and Ormonde have said is interesting, we are dealing here with the regulation and the issuance of Irish passports. The amendment Senator Quinn tabled and which was ruled out of order referred to establishing an independent commission to prepare a report on the implications for Ireland if it became party to the Schengen acquis. Senator Ormonde has come up with a good idea, that we would debate the matter in the House and perhaps an independent commission would be part of that debate.

The issues Senator Quinn raised relate to Ireland's policy on the European Union concerning freedom of movement and border controls. I hope the House will have a debate on those issues. They do not relate to the regulation and issuing of Irish passports and, as such, it is not appropriate to include such a provision in the Bill.

I agree that we all would want to see easier travel to and from the European Union member states. I mentioned on Second Stage that we should be aware of the implications for British-Irish and North-South relations. The UK remains outside the Schengen area, as Senator Quinn stated, and we would not wish to risk a negative impact on the common travel area or the establishment of border controls within the island of Ireland. On Second Stage Senator Keaveney gave examples of travelling from Belfast to Dublin.

I take on board what the Senators have said. I will pass on their views to the Minister, Deputy Dermot Ahern. I look forward to hearing the decision of the House about a debate and if I can take part it, I will do so gladly. However, I cannot accept the points for inclusion in the Bill.