Frances Fitzgerald (Fine Gael)

Yesterday in this House there was an attempt to take All Stages of two Bills. That is clearly bad practice and I hope it will not happen here again. Next week, the Criminal Justice (Amendment) Bill will come into the House. Whatever approach one takes to that Bill - Fine Gael supports many aspects of it - there is an ever-growing view that not enough time is being given to debating it and examining all the implications for the country, society and the Constitution. Today's edition of The Irish Times carries a letter signed by 133 defence and prosecution lawyers that states the Bill could jettison ancient rights and rules of evidence if it is passed without proper debate.

It is extremely important that this legislation is fully debated, with enough time given to tease out difficulties. We will consider the legislation next week. If amendments are made in this House, will the Dáil be able to consider those amendments? I urge the Leader to give proper time in this House to the Second Stage debate. This legislation is critical. I am aware of the intimidation that local communities and families are facing from drug barons. I have talked to families and know what they are going through. Young children are being asked to carry drugs from one place to another. Strong legislation and adequate Garda resources must be put in place to deal with the threat but it is important that we follow parliamentary procedure and that we have sufficient time to deal with the legislation. I ask the Leader to assure the House that we will have sufficient time to discuss the Bill next week and that there will not be a guillotine as there was on a Bill yesterday.