Bid to extend Bill debate defeated

The Government has voted down an opposition attempt to extend debate on the Criminal Justice Bill beyond lunchtime today.

The controversial legislation, which aims to crack down on organised gang crime, is being rushed through the Dáil without the normal length of time for debate.

The opposition has been demanding that more time be allotted to discuss the various measures it contains.

However, the Government used its Dáil majority to secure a 76-61 vote in favour of the current timetable, which will see the debate end at 1.30pm.

Tánaiste Mary Coughlan told the House that there had already been ample discussion of the matter and the Government wanted the bill passed before the summer break.