Joe O'Toole (Independent)

The last consolidation Bill was introduced in 1991 and dealt with in the Seanad for long periods. It would be of benefit if the new consolidation Bill could be introduced in this House where it could be taken more slowly. The people most affected by the Bill will not look at it until the discussion takes place; therefore, it is vital that we do this. We did it in 1991 and it took a lot of time to get through. One chapter had to be brought through as a section on its own because of the Goodman affair and we had to come back during the summer to deal with it. It was important legislation. I completely agree with the Minister of State. On Second Stage I talked about the delay in introducing the legislation, but I also said to the Tánaiste I did not believe it would be here in the spring, even though she insisted it would be. However, I do not want this legislation to be rushed because there is too much at stake. Issues dealt with in it need to be looked at and everyone must have an input. It should be introduced in this House and the time granted to go through it because it will take weeks to do it.