Gerard Craughwell (Independent) | Oireachtas source

The Leas-Chathaoirleach made a very useful point when he indicated that the Minister of State had run out of road on this issue. The question Senators have asked has still not been answered. To introduce legislation that has a cloud hanging over it and could have repercussions throughout the public service would be a very serious mistake to make for the Houses. This legislation could destabilise every Department, as the jobs of all Secretaries General, assistant Secretaries General and principal officers would not be safe. While this is a small Bill, it has serious implications. We must be careful about what we are doing.