Paschal Mooney (Fianna Fail)

As this is the first occasion on which he has visited the House since his appointment, I welcome the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Deputy Pat Rabbitte.

This is a Seanad Bill which has been amended by the Dáil. In accordance with Standing Order 118, it is deemed to have passed its First, Second and Third Stages in the Seanad and has been placed on the Order Paper for Report Stage. On the question "That the Bill be received for final consideration," the Minister will explain the purpose of the amendments made by the Dáil. This is looked upon as the report of the Dáil amendments to the Seanad. For the convenience of Senators, the Cathaoirleach has arranged for the printing and circulation to them of the amendments. There are eight other amendments to the Bill as passed by the Dáil. If the House agrees, the Minister will first explain the changes made by the Dáil to the Bill. We can then deal with the eight amendments to the Bill as passed by the Dáil. Is that agreed? Agreed.

In regard to the amendments made to the Bill by the Dáil, I am suggesting 21 groupings based on the subject matter of the 96 amendments made. The Minister will deal separately with the subject matter of each related group of amendments. I advise the House that Senators may speak only once on each grouping. I also remind Senators that the only matters that can be discussed are the amendments made by the Dáil.

Question proposed: "That the Bill be received for final consideration."