Kevin Humphreys (Labour) | Oireachtas source

There is a sense of nervousness in respect of the amendments the Minister of State is proposing. I would have far preferred to have an opportunity to discuss and debate them in detail on Committee Stage. To be honest, it is not clear to me what the Minister of State trying to achieve. My fear is that a citizen who wishes to uphold his or her rights will be prevented from seeking justice through the courts due to costs. Can the Minister of State allay those fears? Can he give me a practical example of how the amendments would affect a citizen who is trying to protect his or her rights and would not impose unjust costs on him or her? If one cannot afford to seek justice through the courts, one cannot access it.

Bringing in what I consider to be far-reaching amendments at this stage without the due rigour of consideration on Committee Stage is not good practice. I would like the Minister of State to provide a practical example. I am sure he has asked his officials how the amendment will impact on a citizen who is trying to uphold the environment or his or her rights. I am anxious to hear his response and I ask him to provide a down-to-earth, practical example.