Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

I apologise for not mentioning prior notice. It is a very valid point and I am prepared to consider it, in terms of an amendment on ten working days to give advance notice to people.

There are various scenarios in which notice should be given. It is appropriate to include that in the primary legislation rather than by way of regulations. Ten working days, which is two weeks, is a reasonable notice period.

I thank Senator Leyden for his constructive view on the legislation. I would prefer not to have to bring forward these provisions, but we are obliged to do so on account of the State losing a case at the European Court of Justice. It falls to me to deal with the matter and I intend to do so as constructively and pragmatically as possible.