Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Let me be clear. I rose earlier in response to the Leas-Chathaoirleach's invitation in order to be helpful. What has happened now is that Senator McDowell has gone far beyond what I said. I recognised that there are concerns and listened to what Senators outlined as their concerns. I am reflecting on these. I have not stated that there is a problem. I have not stated that I share Senators' concerns. What I am anxious to do is bring forward legislation that can have the assent of the majority of this House having regard to the concerns of Senators. I am not going to change the Bill to accord with the points that Senator McDowell has been making for the past number of weeks. I have listened carefully to the concerns and I will reflect on them. I have been doing so during the course of this debate. I have not received any advice to the effect that there is a problem. What I am doing is merely acknowledging concerns. I will seek - as indeed is the norm - a period of reflection prior to Report Stage. That is why we have particular Stages. I am not conceding that there is a difficulty. It would be unfair of Senators to suggest that I have done so.