Feargal Quinn (Independent)

The Minister of State drew attention to the benefit of the Seanad, pointing out that it had covered some areas that could have been missed. This example is a reminder. It is a Seanad Bill, but Senator O'Toole's explanation is welcome, because it is a first-hand explanation of the work of a supervisory authority and how legalese is open to different interpretations.

We have visitors today who are students participating in the Mitchell scholarship programme. I can remember the legislation to establish that programme which was brought here from the Dáil and it was noted that there was an important flaw that had not been noticed in the Dáil. An amendment was tabled, the Minister accepted it and the Bill went back to the Dáil.

This is a good example of the importance of the Seanad. We should recognise that looking at all legislation a second time is valuable. Having people like Senator O'Toole in the House gives us the opportunity to avail of such expertise and amend legislation as a result. I am delighted the Minister of State has accepted the point made and I support the amendment.