Just five TDs opposed the Government's anti-terrorist legislation when it passed all stages in the Dail after 12 hours of debate. There was, however, no formal vote because a minimum of 10 TDs are required before a vote can be taken.
The two Green Party TDs, Mr John Gormley (Dublin South-East) and Mr Trevor Sargent (Dublin North) were joined by Sinn Fein TD Mr Caoimhghin O Caolain (Cavan Monaghan), Mr Joe Higgins (Socialist, Dublin West) and Mr Tony Gregory (Ind, Dublin Central) in their opposition.
Despite some 60 amendments, the Offences Against the State (Amendment) Bill, passed through largely as drafted by the Government at 11.40 p.m. and goes to the Seanad today for a seven-hour debate.