Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

There is no question about the Minister's desire to put this legislation in place, but those of us who had the experience of speaking on the previous legislation quite some time ago are conscious of how delays can occur and official, bureaucratic and other processes can slow matters. It has been some time since we debated this legislation. It has been in the public realm and many businesses have been expecting and preparing for something to this effect. It gives businesses a predictability and an ability to plan if they know that, after commencement, this legislation will enter into effect. There would be a clearer timeline, which would allow everyone to plan for it and engage with it constructively.

I am supportive of the amendment, which calls for "immediately". I was probably trying to strike a compromise through "within three months" so that, after commencement, it would be clear that the clock started ticking at that point. Businesses and others involved in the implementation would be clear that, within three months, the regulations would kick in. It is intended to give a predictability and keep momentum so that we have a timeline and there is energy to continue moving on this.

While the previous iteration of this Bill moved along, the legislation has been a long time coming.Amendment No. 3 is intended to give certainty, predictability and to ensure that those who are getting on board with this legislation, there are many, are clear on the timelines of when this will kick into effect. I hope the Minister can accept either of these amendments.