Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senators Black, Kelleher, Ruane and Dolan for introducing this Bill.I believe it is a good Bill on the whole. There are some issues that might need to be teased out but they need not be teased out here today as we will have opportunities to so do during the various stages, including Committee Stage.

Senator Horkan made a valuable inquiry about the money message. The Minister of State might address the point at this stage. I hope he will allow the Bill to proceed to the next stage. It is a good Bill and I hope the Government will support it at this stage.

I thank the proposers. In particular I wish to thank Senator Higgins, who effectively came around the Houses, briefed people and took time. That is really important when a Senator is trying to get legislation through. It is important to take time out of one's schedule in advance of the day. She did that to explain the Bill to the Independent group. That was really helpful and I wish to acknowledge that. The Bill has my support subject to the further discussion on Committee Stage and possible amendment.

I wish the Bill well. In essence what the proposers are trying to do is good and strong. It will add to our legislation. I would be interested to hear what the Minister of State has to say, especially with reference to the money Bill. Does he envisage a problem? Has he been cautioned in any way? Does he perceive or think this might be a problem?