Kevin Humphreys (Dublin South East, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank all the Senators who have contributed to the debate on Committee Stage. I personally have found it quite informative. I always enjoy coming to the House and think it a very worthwhile experience.

I totally accept that Senators O'Brien and Norris put their amendments in good faith. I met the members of the particular schemes and I see the real cash loss, which is extremely difficult for them. The one thing I have learned through this whole process is that the whole of pensions legislation is extremely complicated and it is difficult to frame legislation without unintended consequences. Indeed, dating back to the original legislation, there has been a series of unintended consequences. Senator O'Brien noted there will be another social welfare Bill. I will certainly be attentive and I will look at that coming through, and I look forward to discussing it with the Senator, even outside the House. I totally accept the good faith of the vast majority of Senators in regard to the debate. I thank them for their contributions and I look forward to working with them over the coming year.