Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is an important issue that Senator Bacik has made.

She asks why expressions of interest are sought, under section 44, but not allowed otherwise. Again, I intend addressing section 44 on Report Stage. Having regard to the fact that section 38, which we are discussing now, and section 39, which, hopefully, we will be discussing shortly, envisage that the commission will do the selection work, which of course is not the case under section 44, I will have to make some changes in respect of section 44. I take the related points, which have been raised by Senator Bacik, in respect of the other sections. I note what she said in that regard.

In conclusion and in short, I do not wish to open up the process any further as is envisaged under amendments Nos. 84, 85 and 85a because I believe that extending the Bill to incorporate the sentiment in the amendments actually goes against the spirit of the legislation. Having listened carefully to the Senators, I am not prepared to accept what would be a fundamental departure from the Bill.