I welcome the Minister for Committee Stage of the Occupiers Liability Bill, 1994. This is an important Bill, which has been eagerly awaited by Members since the committee was reconstituted some weeks ago. The Bill arises from much public discussion on the question of occupiers' liability. The Law Reform Commission produced two substantial reports on this area and it is significant to note that the Minister acted very quickly following the publication of the commission's final report in early summer last year.
The Bill before the committee this afternoon is small, but it is highly technical and legally very difficult. From the contributions during the private session earlier, I have no doubt that the Bill will generate intense but constructive debate. The Minister is changing the old law on occupiers' liablity by dispensing with the former concept of invitees, licensees and trespassers to a more modern and simple process in the context of visitors and trespassers.
In relation to the amendments, I am in the hands of the committee as regards how long the committee sits this afternoon and tomorrow. The Minister is available until 7 p.m. this evening, but I am not sure whether Members of the committee wish to break for the Order of Business at 4.20 p.m. I am in the hands of the committee in that regard. Perhaps we should proceed with the amendments and see what progress we can make between now and 4.30 p.m. or 5 p.m. However, I am anxious that the important amendments tabled by Deputies are fully debated. With the consent of the committee, I formally welcome the Minister and call Deputy Helen Keogh to move amendment No. 1 to section 1.