Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I think witnesses for their presentation. I have already met one or two of them when they lobbied me on this issue. The lobbying was quite informative.

It will be useful for the committee when the legislation eventually appears to have that extra understanding from the material the network has supplied to us. We are waiting for the heads of the Bill. The Minister has said it is due so when it appears we will be able to invite the network back for a presentation on the specific wording. The witnesses highlighted in the report the areas of concern, and that is very useful.

The key question is how many transgender people have come out at this stage. Many people must not have come out because of the stigma attached and they are living with depression and suicidal thoughts. Mr. Matthews mentioned he runs a helpline or support group. How can people who cannot get legal recognition because of the situation in Ireland be helped? Irish society has moved forward in the past 20 or 30 years but not far enough on this issue.

I look forward to the legislation in order that we can tease out the various points to try to ensure Ireland has the best possible legislation and can be an example to other countries. Argentina was mentioned as having good legislation, and there have been changes in Britain. We should look at best practice internationally and ensure our legislation stands the test of time.