Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I must refrain from getting too involved. I am well aware of the support given to small shopkeepers. I commend Senator Keith Swanick, who made an excellent contribution and has tabled excellent amendments. I am particularly impressed the Minister is considering the situation in a very serious light and is prepared to have consultation. The Bill will be far stronger because of the work of the Seanad. If ever the Seanad served itself well, it has done so in this particular regard. The contributions of everyone have been absolutely excellent, and the Minister would agree. When I was a Minister of State, I always found the Seanad to be the best place to get information on a Bill. There is a broad sense of knowledge, expertise and professionalism here. We have everything from the most senior of senior counsels to solicitors, doctors, lawyers and everything else. We have them all here. It is very useful to have this input.