David Norris (Independent)

I second this important amendment. On an earlier Stage, I made a point in support of Senator Bacik concerning those people who have been in hostel accommodation and so on for six months or longer and their families, who must go on to the streets. The Minister of State indicated with a nod that he understood the problem. On Second Stage, he also indicated his clear intention that people should not stay for more than six months. In this light, setting a maximum period would be important. Otherwise, people might stay in emergency accommodation for comparatively long and uncomfortable periods.

We know from experience that emergencies can last a long time. Emergency legislation dating from the last war is still on the Statute Book. More than 60 years is a hell of a long time. I would hate to believe that someone could experience an emergency that lasts as long as some of our emergency legislation. In light of this legislation, the definition of an emergency does not include immediacy.