Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. His visit to the House was brief and he is an extremely busy man, but this is very important legislation. I also wish to acknowledge the co-operation we have received so far on many elements of the justice, equality and disability portfolio from the Opposition parties, and particularly Senators Wilson and Clifford-Lee. If people seek a definition of "new politics", and I have heard many people talking about that definition, this Bill epitomises what is new politics and what politics should be about, namely, achieving consensus in as many areas as possible. This Bill is the result of extensive negotiations between the Government and the Opposition primarily focused on ensuring the commission of investigation can do a proper job to get to the bottom of these issues on behalf of the citizens of this country.

The Bill is important and it will yield results. I and all Members of the House wish the commission of investigation and its chairman the best in the important work it must do on behalf of the people of this country.