Dominic Hannigan (Labour)

I thank Senator Bacik for sharing her time with me. I also welcome the Minister of State, Deputy Conor Lenihan.

It is ten years since the legislation was first enacted. We can all remember where we were when the horrors of that day in Omagh unfolded. It was particularly horrible because at that time we were very hopeful that the situation in the North could be resolved. People were concerned about whether we could make a breakthrough and achieve peace but ten years on the situation has improved dramatically. As a result, legislation such as this has become less necessary.

While my party will not oppose the passing of the legislation today we will put down a marker for future years such that any special measures contained in the legislation have to be justified and cannot just be passed on the nod, so to speak. Given the improving political situation we would expect less requirement for these measures. I ask the mandarins in the Department to consider whether it will be necessary to renew all of the clauses next year. On this occasion we will be supportive of the legislation.