Michael D'Arcy (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The concerns which are reflected in the amendment proposed by the Senator are relevant in the context of our membership and engagement with the bank and fund. Human rights and climate action issues are fundamental drivers of our international development policy which underpins, informs and shapes our engagement with all international institutions. However, as a general principle, it is not appropriate to embed in legislation specific, once-off measures in the way suggested, especially when there already exists a 12 month post-enactment reporting obligation.

As the Senator may be aware, under Standing Order 164A of the Oireachtas, there is currently an obligation after 12 months of the enactment of a Bill to review and make a report on the function of the Act. This report shall be laid in the Oireachtas Library. On the current Bill and complying with Standing Order 164A, I am sure the Minister will give full consideration to the concerns reflected and expressed in the Senator's amendments and those expressed by other Members during the passage of the Bill. I do not propose to take the amendments proposed by Senator Higgins.