David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I join my colleagues who have objected to Irish military involvement in Operation Sophia. It is an erosion of our neutrality by stealth. It is a disgrace that the legislation is being introduced in the other House and I hope it will be roundly defeated.

It is not good practice to rush a Bill through all Stages and I have always maintained this position. It is true of the Rugby World Cup Bill. I used to play rugby, but I would not now turn over in bed to watch a game of rugby or any other sport. I am not interested in watching them, but I understand there are people who are. I do not see any reason the Government should underwrite the bid to the tune of €200 million or spend €143 million on some other aspect of it. Why should the taxpayer pay? I do not see the logic in it. In any case, it is bad practice to rush a Bill through all Stages in one day. It is just a last minute intervention by the Minister with responsibility for tourism, trade and transport.