James Heffernan (Labour) | Oireachtas source

On the section, Senator van Turnhout was very au fait with many of the deliberations involved and asked me to give her some cover in the Chamber today as she is unable to attend for various reasons. On section 158, I am glad the Minister has clarified that it was under direct threat from the European Commission. I was a little concerned about whether fines had been issued but she has clarified that is not the case.

On section 158(5), Senator van Turnhout has asked me to put it on the record that she feels this subsection should be deleted as it serves no justifiable purpose that section 158(2) does not already cover. Section 158(2) provides for the only permissible purposes under the services directive that restrictions can be put on advertising. All the extra specifications in subsection (5) will leave the State open to enforcement and litigation. They also illegally restrict competition for legal services to the detriment of customers and the competitive market. I have been asked to put this on the record and I thank the Cathaoirleach for allowing me to do so.