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Where does John Blair MLA go from here?

John Blair's proposal for a private member’s bill is still in the preliminary stages of the legislative process. Based on the information we have, here are the next steps and potential timelines.

Analysis of consultation responses

Blair should review and analyse the feedback from the public consultation that concluded on 20th January. This involves summarising the responses and demonstrating how the consultation has informed the development of his proposed bill. This analysis must be thorough to meet procedural requirements and would undoubtedly have to address criticisms regarding openness and accessibility.

Drafting a summary report

The summary of responses will serve as a key document in the bill's progression. It must clearly show how the consultation shaped the proposal and incorporated public and stakeholder views and support for the bill.

Submission to the Speaker

Once the summary and final proposal is prepared, Blair will submit them to the Speaker for consideration. This stage ensures the proposal meets the requirements laid out for private members’ bills (PMBs).

Speaker's decision

With nine PMBs currently vying for limited legislative time, the Speaker will decide which bills progress based on criteria such as their readiness, public and political support, and legislative priorities but the Speaker has said PMBs will not be taken forward on a first come first serve basis. 

Drafting a bill

If approved, the proposal moves to the drafting stage. Drafting legislation can be a complex process, requiring precision and sometimes multiple revisions to ensure legal clarity and alignment with policy goals. We must remember that Blair has done this previously with his last PMB. 

Approval of the draft bill by the Speaker’s Office

Once the draft is ready, it must return to the Speaker’s Office for final approval before being scheduled for introduction.

Introduction and First Reading

The bill’s introduction date will be determined by Mr Blair and the Business Committee. The First Reading or First Stage is largely procedural and marks the bill’s formal introduction.

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Timeline

The timeline for these steps can vary. Mr Blair’s previous attempt at introducing a PMB took approximately six months, but the current process could be shorter or longer depending on how efficiently the steps are completed. Delays might arise if the Speaker requires further revisions, or if the consultation process is deemed deficient. 

Other Factors Influencing Progress
  • Competition with other bills: The Speaker’s decision will weigh heavily, given the range of PMBs currently in contention and that Blair’s bill has already been debated. 
  • Quality of consultation and engagement: Blair must address criticisms of accessibility and transparency to strengthen his proposal’s chances.
  • Time sensitivity: With limited legislative time remaining, urgency and preparedness could impact whether the bill advances.

Countryside Alliance Ireland will continue monitoring the process closely and will provide more clarity about our next steps should the bill move forward.

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