Paschal Mooney (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I second the amendment proposed to the Order of Business that the National Anthem Bill 2016 be taken today. I support Senator Mark Daly's initiative. I also suggest the decision of the Government on the expiration of copyright in 2014 led to an inquiry by a Department to the Irish Music Rights Organisation, which controls copyright in this country, and a request for further clarification. I understand the response from IMRO was that it recommended that copyright on the national anthem, Amhrán na bhFiann, be reintroduced in perpetuity. Therefore, the Government should move to protect the integrity of the anthem. I hope this legislation which is simple but would be effective in its execution and content will be accepted by the Government without delay to ensure we protect the integrity of the anthem. It is no mean proposal. It is to ensure the anthem will not in any way be besmirched. I have pleasure, therefore, in seconding the amendment.

I also propose an amendment to the Order of Business, that Second Stage of the Corporate Manslaughter Bill 2011 be taken today. This legislation was recommended by the Law Reform Commission. I have no doubt, therefore, that it is a Bill the Government will accept.