Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

It is hoped — I stress "hoped" — it will be published this session. Members will recall that six unexpected Bills were published during the last session owing to the banking challenges. One cannot foresee what future difficulties might arise in this area. As pointed out by Senator Leyden, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform is also facing many challenges. I will return to that issue shortly. In terms of dealing with these issues, unexpected drafting of new Bills and Bills which seek to amend existing legislation, both of which must be brought before both Houses for approval, takes time and requires us to take account of the availability of draft persons. Members will be aware that expertise in these areas is of the utmost importance. Members of the House whose qualification is in the legal profession will know how tedious and lengthy a process is the drafting of legislation which must be brought before each House for scrutiny. While it is my intention that the auctioneering Bill will be dealt with in this House during this session, that may not happen until the next session should it be necessary to bring before this House the two or three Bills published yesterday. I will update the House on this next Tuesday.

Senators Norris, McFadden and Bacik called for a debate on water quality. I have no difficulty in allowing time for such a debate. As one who lives in the lake district of Ireland, a beautiful part of hidden Ireland in the midlands, I would welcome a debate on this important and topical issue.

Senator Glynn called for a debate on further developments in the docklands and on what has been achieved in terms of transformation of the area. I often take friends there to show them the achievements and advancements of our country during the past ten or 12 years. It has been mind boggling to witness the developments taking place there. It shows what can happen with progressive ideas. I have no difficulty in providing time for a debate on this issue.

I join with Senator Leyden in congratulating the Garda Síochána on the great work it is doing. The Senator also called for a debate on the role of the Garda Síochána, the challenges facing the force into the future and the proposals put forward in this regard. We are all aware of the ever-changing challenges facing the Garda. The force is to be congratulated on its work in the drugs area. I support the comments made by Senator Leyden in regard to the article on the closure of local Garda stations, which is unfounded and untrue. I am pleased to hear he has been reassured by the Minister and the Commissioner on this matter.