Feargal Quinn (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I have often spoken of my frustration at the length of time it takes to get something done through the Government and the State. Next May it will be three years since the introduction of the Construction Contracts Bill in this House, with Committee and Report Stages completed in this House in March 2011. There is frustration that this has not yet become law, although the good news is that I gather the legislation was considered by the Cabinet this morning and any Committee Stage changes will be approved by the Cabinet today. I assume a number of worthy changes will take place, meaning it must return to this House after going through the Dáil. I urge the Leader to ensure this happens as soon as possible.

That is not the only Bill delayed over the years. Another Bill relating to organ transplants has also been delayed, and I know Senator Mark Daly has views on that also. There was some interesting news in the papers this week indicating that patients are being given livers that machines keep alive. It has only been announced in the past few days and instead of having to transfer body organs immediately, they can be kept alive for a few days, providing a real opportunity to do something about human body transplants. This is a serious issue, as so many delays have taken place that we have dropped the number of transplants in the past year. We can do something about it and the new development should urge the Minister to reintroduce this Bill or similar legislation to ensure that we can see action.

Senator Katherine Zappone and I have invited all Senators to a short meeting tonight at 6 p.m. Those who are worried about a later football match should know that I am sure they will be able to get to it or watch it on television but this meeting is much more important, as it concerns the future of this House. We are seeking suggestions and ideas for what this House wants. The meeting will not be very long but I urge as many people as possible to come to the audiovisual room at 6 p.m.