Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

The Bill deliberately reads, "in one official language". It may be possible to deal with things differently in the future. The reality is that legislation is enacted in the English language and that amendments are furnished in English. The legislation we are dealing with is in English and when it goes to the Dáil it will be in English. The final print will be instantly available in English. Often crucial amendments are made to legislation on Report Stage and within a day or two the President may sign the legislation. It is not possible on technical legislation such as this, which deals with 40 Acts, to provide for instant translation.