It is proposed to take Nos. 11 and 12.
Order of Business.
Does the Taoiseach intend to provide any time for a discussion on the matter which has just been referred to, the disastrous situation in Bangladesh? Secondly, may I ask the Taoiseach to give an indication as to whether it is the intention of the Government to introduce legislation dealing with the matter referred to in the Law Reform Commission report published this morning, that is, the proceeds from crime.
I am sure regard will be had to matters which can and cannot be raised just now.
In relation to legislation, I want to take up one of the points raised. Will the Taoiseach clarify the Government's intentions in relation to legislation dealing with ill-gotten gains from crime? It would appear there is a disparity between the extra parliamentary spokesperson for the Progressive Democrats who stated this morning that the legislation was not forthcoming and the Minister for Justice who indicated by car phone some seconds later that legislation is well prepared. Can the Taoiseach clarify the matter for the House?
That is what is called a difference——
As usual, I have to direct the attention of the Deputy and the House to my Ard Fheis speech——
What about Deputy O'Malley's Ard Fheis speech?
The Taoiseach had better send a copy to Mr. McDowell.
——in which I clearly signalled that legislation along these lines would be introduced.
The question is, when?
That is the difference.
Now that the Taoiseach has put on the record of the House a promise that this legislation will be introduced, may I ask him when it will be introduced?
Is legislation promised in this area?
Ten seconds ago.
It had not been promised——
It was promised by car phone.
The Taoiseach promised it a minute ago.
——in this House but it is promised now.
During this session?
Sometimes I think Deputies are far more interested in scoring low political points——
The Taoiseach is not bad at it himself.
——than showing any deep concern about these important matters. The position is that some time ago the Government took a decision to embark on this legislation. I doubt if this will be possible with the tightly packed schedule of legislation we have this session, but it is very much on the way.
Can we proceed to the Order of Business proper? Item No. 11.
In order to end this constant questioning, I might put my Ard Fheis speech on the record of the House.
One hour of it was enough.
I believe the Taoiseach forgets that Fianna Fáil are only one segment of the Government. I do not see the relevance of his Ard Fheis speech.
Item No. 11 has been called.