Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)

With regard to the time limit of ten working days in which people must produce proof of registration, I am prepared to consider this in the other House, but the number of days to which we can extend it must be considered. We might be able to make progress on that in terms of its implementation.

With regard to the concerns of Sinn Féin and other Senators about the use of the word "offence" in the Bill, I do not know what else one could call it. Not registering a septic tank is an offence that carries a fine of up to €5,000. The only offensive part of this is the phrase "up to €5,000". The maximum penalty for an individual is €5,000. There is no provision for imprisonment of persons who commit an offence under the legislation.