Feargal Quinn (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Senator Healy Eames is right it is shameful. It is outrageous that it has not happened. Is there any possibility that Seanad reform will be on the agenda? I would quite happily introduce a Bill when my next Private Members’ time comes up in a month or so to debate this again. Is it possible that we could manage to get it through?

One of my frustrations in this House over the past 22 years is the time it takes for legislation to be introduced. Six years ago, when I bought a German-made car which contained a reflective triangle, a first-aid kit, a torch and other emergency items, I called for the making of such emergency kits compulsory for all cars. The Minister at the time supported my calls. Nothing, however, happened. Yesterday, the current Minister said he was delighted the Garda was calling for legislation to this effect. My call was five years ago.

Around the same time, I introduced a Bill concerning the provision of defibrillators. The Minister at the time said the Health Information and Quality Authority, HIQA, would examine the possibility of such legislation.