asked the Minister for Justice if he intends to introduce legislation to amend section 17 of the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 1935.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Criminal Law (Amendment) Act.
66.
I have nothing to add at the present time to what has already been said on behalf of the Government in regard to this matter.
Is the Minister aware that the Minister for Transport and Power on behalf of the Government said as far back as February last that this matter was under active consideration. It is a matter which is causing considerable concern in the context of the present time and is it not time for the Minister to indicate whether the Minister for Transport and Power was serious when he said the matter was actively considered by the Government?
The matter is still under consideration. As recently as two days ago I read a number of memoranda on this matter and the Government will be considering it again shortly.
When?
I would say that it will be considered by the Government within three or four weeks.
Can the Minister say if amending legislation will be introduced before the recess?
I cannot anticipate the Government's decision.
Will the Government's decision be to amend the Act?
That is the point I have made—I cannot anticipate the Government's decision.
In view of the fact that the Minister for Transport and Power said there will be an amendment——
I understand the Minister said that it is under consideration. That certainly is so.
Under consideration to amend it. He said amendments were being drafted for the purpose of amending legislation. Is that still accepted by the Government?
I do not want it to be implied that it was ever accepted by the Government and, as I have said, I cannot anticipate the decision.
May I ask a supplementary?
There have been several supplementaries on it.
By one Deputy. I want to ask only one. What are the Government afraid of?
The Government have not considered this matter.
Not half.
I said the Government will be considering it shortly.