Paudie Coffey (Fine Gael)

I welcome the fact that the Minister of State is open to further examining the Fine Gael amendments which seek to bring clarity to the legislation. I accept that he must take further legal advice on the amendments. On that basis I am prepared to withdraw them while reserving the right to resubmit them on Report Stage.

I am disappointed that the Minister of State has not agreed to reconsider amendment No. 50 which seeks the deletion of the word "substantial". The word "substantial" is not defined and could become a point of argument in law. The amendment seeks to clarify and simplify the legislation. While the Minister of State has gone to great lengths to explain the reasons he cannot accept the amendment, I ask that he re-examine the matter with his officials between now and Report Stage. It is our advice that acceptance of the amendment would clarify and improve the legislation.