James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I will frustrate Senator Ward again by saying he makes eminently sensible points on the sentencing options, the principles of which I agree with. The general scheme of the children (amendment) Bill was published in July by the Minister, Deputy McEntee, and will go to pre-legislative scrutiny in the very near future. I agree with Senator Ward. I agree with the sentiment and the drafting of the amendment but, at this moment in time and with the urgency of the Bill, there has not been an opportunity to scrutinise the amendment to allow it to be included. I will get the Department to reach out to Senator Ward so we can be assured the legislation that is needed is done as quickly as possible.