Michael McDowell (Independent) | Oireachtas source

To wrap up the debate on amendments Nos. 86a and 86b, they are related. Amendment No. 86b proposes a new section 41, which is designed to clearly state what seems to be the actual consensus right across this House. Also, it seems now, I am happy to say and without exaggerating the situation, at least not to be frowned upon by the Minister as a proposition. To me, central to the question as to whether this Bill should progress any further is whether we are willing in this House to acknowledge that contrary to the suggestions made by the champion of this Bill, and I will not personalise it any further, this does not interfere with the traditional function, right and duty of the Government, under the Constitution, to make its own decisions. The commission, just like the board that exists at the moment is purely advisory. In those circumstances, I have nothing further to add except to welcome the fact that the Minister sees some potential merit in introducing some kind of an amendment on Report Stage to mirror the proposal contained in amendment No. 86b.