Paschal Donohoe (Fine Gael)

We discussed this on Second Stage, when both I and Senator Ryan raised the matter. The Minister gave a categorical assurance that a preclearance officer would not be in possession of a firearm. The amendment seeks to copperfasten that. This is a matter of potential sensitivity to the Irish people and while we accept the Minister's bona fides in this regard, it is such an important point that it merits inclusion in the legislation.