Before I call Deputy Doyle, I understand that the Minister of State and Government Chief Whip, Deputy Dempsey, wishes to intervene to make an explanatory statement.
Explanatory Statement.
I wish to make an explanatory statement on behalf of Deputy Noel Davern, who is away at present. The statement reads as follows:
I wish to refer to certain remarks which I made in the House on 9 June last. On that day I made certain remarks which were highly critical of the Law Reform Commission, its members and staff. I very much regret having made those remarks and I unreservedly withdraw them and apologise to the members of the Commission. The remarks which I made were unwarranted and unjustified. I accept that the members of the Law Reform Commission are persons of unimpeachable integrity. I deeply regret having caused upset to the members and staff of the Commission.
The consultation paper prepared by the Commission on the subject of occupiers' liability was, at the time I made my remarks, being printed and has since been published by the Commission. I look forward to considering its contents. Having regard to the complexity of the issues involved in occupiers' liability and the length of the consultation paper which has now been published I can well understand why its publication and preparation took approximately 15 months. I have no doubt that its publication will now assist and stimulate widespread and useful discussion which will lead to the clarification and reform of the law.
I repeat that I deeply regret having made the offensive remarks referred to. I apologise wholeheartedly for them and I withdraw them without reservation. I would like to add that I have full confidence in the Law Reform Commission and its personnel and I wish them well in their work.