Colm Burke (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State and the Department for bringing forward this legislation. I also thank the Department for the consultation that took place prior to this. It is important that there be consultation prior to bringing forward legislation - as many people as possible should be involved in the process. This legislation is evidence of this. I thank everyone who contributed to the debate, particularly those who tabled amendments. I may not have agreed with all the amendments but it is important that each area be examined carefully and amendments force us to do so. I thank Senator Crown and my colleague on the other side of the House, Senator MacSharry, for their amendments as they contribute to the debate.