Denis Landy (Labour) | Oireachtas source

Yes. I indicated that I wanted to do so before Senator Barrett indicated. I, too, expressed concern about this issue on Second Stage. I listened to the Minister of State's response. This matter has been examined by the Department and we have got a response from it in the form of the reply the Minister of State has given to us. I would be hopeful that the timeframe involved for this will not be 24 months.

When I raised this issue on Second Stage, the Minister of State, Deputy Nash, was taking the Bill and he stressed that was the outside timeframe for this. I completely accept what both Senators on the other side of the House have said, that we cannot continue to sit on our hands and allow these matters to go on in the way they are going on. There must be an urgency about this.

If we got some further indication from the Minister of State that 24 months is the outside timeframe for this and that we would endeavour to expedite what is provided for in this section as quickly as possible, it would provide some comfort that 24 months may not be required for this. That would certainly make me happy, although I will not speak for people on the other side of the House. While I note the amendment is being pressed but not being pushed to a vote, the Minister of State might respond further on this point as it is an important one.