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

On behalf of the Minister, I apologise that she was not able to attend to participate in the debate. Within the answer she has clearly indicated that it will be done by the end of the year. The Government has given an undertaking that we will bring forward legislation during that period and fully intends to honour its commitment. It is the Minister's view that any scheme that introduces PPOs should be extended to cover cases in which the defendant is not the State. Having said this, the Minister believes one must recognise that in the introduction of a scheme covering all defendants we would have to ensure the State would not be exposed to unnecessary financial risk. I am sure the Government would not be thanked if we were to expose the country to financial risk in this way. It is clear from the Minister's answer that she is determined to ensure this matter will be dealt with within the year. I presume, although I have not discussed this with the Minister, the legislation will be presented to the relevant committee first.