Ivana Bacik (Independent) | Oireachtas source

As a non-member of the committee who has played an active role in the proceedings over the past three days I thank the Chairman for his impeccable chairmanship of the meetings.

I also thank the staff of the joint committee, as well as the members, for allowing us non-members also to have input. In addition, I of course thank the witnesses who have given us such insight over the three days.

I greatly welcome the Government's decision to legislate, along with regulations. I also greatly welcome the Minister's commitment given again this afternoon to provide such legislation and hopefully Members will see it within a short timeframe. As others have noted, we have waited 21 years since the X case and 30 years since the 1983 constitutional amendment for legal clarity in this regard. Consequently, it is important to move to legislate swiftly but with due consideration for all the issues that have been raised over the past three days.

Finally, as Deputy Leader of Seanad Éireann, I welcome all those present who do not pay regular visits to this House and note they are all very welcome in this Chamber at any time they choose.