Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the legislation. It is often the case that important legislation does not receive much coverage or attention when it gets over the line in the Seanad. The proof of the pudding lies in the events of last weekend. When something goes wrong we are criticised for failing to update or develop legislation. Our legislation in this area was archaic, was not up to standard and had evolved insufficiently to address various scenarios that could arise. This legislation will evolve and will be amended many times in future. This is an important day as the Bill is an important recognition of what is needed in a modern society in which information and communications technology knows no boundaries and affects the lives of every citizen.

I welcome Councillor O'Brien and his friends to the Gallery. It is great to see him in Leinster House. Councillor O'Brien has been an exceptionally hardworking councillor in the Claremorris area of County Mayo for many years. His commitment to public service on behalf of the people of County Mayo knows no bounds.

I commend the Minister of State, Deputy Stanton, on bringing the legislation through the House. We dealt with Committee and Remaining Stages in one sitting because the Government was required to enact this legislation expeditiously or it would otherwise have infringed European legislation.