Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish to repeat what Senator Jillian van Turnhout said. The report outlines for us what the issue of child care should be all about.

Like Deputy Sandra McLellan I do not know why the Department or the Minister does not issue us with a copy of the report the day before. It would be helpful if we could have a copy of the report the day before as it would give us an opportunity to read it and take it in. We all had time to read the other report from Donegal County Childcare Committee.

I am old-fashioned about child care. I believe the first few years of a child's life are very important, it is when the mother bonds with the child and learns to love and care in the family surroundings. I agree that some people do not have that option as there are not many companies or bosses who have flexible arrangements in place for young parents when they return to work. The report stated that 77% of parents and relatives mind children and share a flexible arrangement.

My daughter, who was a councillor in Dublin City Council, was pregnant three years ago and had no maternity leave. This made life very difficult for her. If we are talking about women going into politics, the issue of child care will have to be examined right across the board, not just in isolated places. The question I am about to put may not be a relevant one for the Minister. However, given that she is Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, can we consider the issue of extending maternity leave for women and men? Children are a shared responsibility of their parents and some men would like to be able to share maternity leave. I do not have any questions except to make those remarks.