Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

One of the first lessons I learned when I was a Member of this esteemed House was that I should listen before I speak. I think that is very important for any public representative. I am listening carefully to what Senators on all sides of the House are saying. I note what Senator Barrett has said about healthy tensions in relationships in politics, business and other fields. It is always important to engage in robust debate that challenges thought processes and encourages differing views and to make decisions accordingly. Any time I have attended this House as a Senator or as a Minister of State, I have found that debates of that nature take place here. For those reasons, I am certainly satisfied to reconsider this in advance of Report Stage. It is important that we take a strong view from both Houses regarding much of what has been discussed. I will conclude with a word of caution to temper what I have said. The Senator opposite has been arguing all the time about unnecessary delays. I would like to make Senators aware that any amendments that are made on Report Stage would have implications for the passage of the Bill through both Houses as they would necessitate the return of the Bill to the Lower House. That is a decision for Senators to make. I will fully respect whatever decision is made. I am happy that we will have further engagement on and consideration of this matter on Report Stage.