David Norris (Independent)

Again, I find myself in strong agreement with Senator Bacik. Six months is plenty of time for it to be considered an emergency but I warn about one aspect. We have had emergency legislation on the Statute Book since the time of the Second World War. For political purposes, therefore, emergencies can be lasting. I support and reinforce what Senator Bacik said because I have a personal memory, as I am sure the Senator does, of hearing the Minister of State speak effectively and tellingly on the precise subject of the Government's aim to move people out of emergency housing within six months. That is what he said in his Second Stage contribution a week or two ago in the House.

It is important to register again that the Minister would not be required to do this if it presented an awkwardness but it would facilitate him in doing it. I cannot imagine an objection, therefore, and will be profoundly shocked if the Minister of State says the amendment is not necessary. We are developing an oral formulaic response, whereby I could practically parrot some of the Minister of State's replies in advance. I ask him to consider the amendment. The Minister was extremely good on this issue on Second Stage but for persons in bed and breakfast accommodation who have to be out on the streets of a city all day and for part of the evening, particularly those with families, six months is a very long time to have to endure such hardship.