I move that the Bill be now read a Second Time. As the Army Estimates will be before the Dáil within the next few weeks, I do not propose to make any statement now.
Defence Forces Bill, 1938—Second, Committee and Final Stages.
I understand that from year to year the Minister for Defence frequently stated that it was his intention to introduce some form of permanent statute to take the place of this transitory legislation.
His predecessor said the same thing.
He did, and he stated that it was the hope of the Government to regularise the position. Will the Minister say at this stage whether it is his intention, on the Army Estimate, to announce the introduction of a permanent measure to take the place of this annual renewal?
It will be introduced this year. It was ready for introduction last year but, owing to the Constitution coming along, it was not brought forward then. The Bill has been drafted for the past year and a half but there are a couple of changes consequential on the coming into operation of the Constitution, and when they are remedied the Bill will be brought forward at a convenient time for discussion in the Dáil.
Question put and agreed to.
When will the Committee Stage be taken?
It is usual to take all stages now.
We are agreeable to give the Minister all stages to-day.
Bill passed through Committee without amendment, received for Final Consideration, and passed.