Josepha Madigan (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Before I address section 1, I would like to note that the centenary of the convening of the First Dáil on 21 January 1919 will be one of the key historical events to be marked by the State in 2019. This event will be marked by both the State and the Houses of the Oireachtas itself.

In relation to the Bill, I know there was cross party support for it when it was considered on Second Stage on 5 July 2017. I will not be moving any amendments on Committee Stage but my Department will be considering textual amendments for Report Stage. For example, this section on definitions includes a definition of the Minister, but there is no reference in the body of the Bill to the Minister, or the functions that he or she might carry out. My Department will consider these drafting matters in advance of Report Stage.