The purpose of this Bill is to maintain the Defence Forces (Temporary Provisions) Acts, 1923 to 1951, up to March 31st, 1953. It is a Bill with which the Seanad is particularly familiar and, as nothing is being added, I do not think that it is necessary for me to do more than express the hope that the Seanad will give me all stages.
Private Business. - Defence Forces (Temporary Provisions) Bill, 1952—Second and Subsequent Stages.
Question proposed: "That the Bill be now read a Second Time."
I suppose that one always parts with an old friend with a certain pang of regret. I have known this Bill since 1924, and I have heard the present Minister, as far back as 1923, demanding indignantly of the Government of that day that a permanent Defence Forces measure should be introduced. That is a long time ago, and a permanent Defence Forces Bill has been introduced, two Governments having intervened, and one major war. I agree entirely with the Minister that we should pass all stages of the Bill to-day, and perhaps we should wish it God-speed.
Question put and agreed to.
Agreed to take remaining stages now.
Bill put through Committee, reported without amendment, received for final consideration and passed.