Gerard Craughwell (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I too wish to be associated with John O'Mahony. He was a very decent man, a towering man. When you met him, you knew you were standing in the presence of greatness. I believe his last interview was given from his hospital bed. That would be the nature of the man. I extend my sympathy to John's family.

I propose to amend the Order of Business to increase the time for the Defence (Amendment) Bill 2024. Providing an hour and a half for this most significant legislation is outrageous. It will change so much about the Defence Forces that it simply cannot be completed in an hour and a half. We were dismissed here last week by the Tánaiste when we tried to table amendments. There are a significant number of important amendments today. I ask that the Cathaoirleach consider giving at least an extra hour for the Bill, meaning we would debate it from 3.15 p.m. until 5.45 p.m. I ask the Cathaoirleach to do that. This is very important.