andMr. McQuillan asked the Minister for Local Government the total number of days spent by the Dáil and Seanad in discussing the Electoral (Amendment) Act, 1959, and the total estimated cost to public funds both in the time of administrative officers and in expenses paid to Deputies and Senators and other costs to public funds during this time.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Electoral (Amendment) Act, 1959: Costs of Enactment.
21.
The Electoral (Amendment) Act, 1959, was introduced in the Dáil on 22nd July, 1959, and was discussed during part of five days in the following October and November. It passed all stages in the Seanad on 19th November. The total time occupied by the debates in both Houses was approximately 16 hours. I cannot estimate the amount of expenses attributable to the Act paid to Deputies and Senators. Neither can I apportion the cost of public servants' time attributable to the Act since its drafting and preparation were part of the ordinary work of my Department and the other offices concerned.