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

No. I offered, but the Chairman keeps throwing me in at the deep end. He had better not make any comment about my hair this time. I was slagged the last time.

When I entered the room after the last vote, I had a message on my telephone from a young woman who had been watching the debate on television. She told me her story. I was taken aback when she stated that today was the beginning of the rest of her life. I did not understand where she was coming from until I listened to this debate. It is important to realise that we are not in this room on our own. We are in the public's view.

I have found this an eye-opening experience. People have spoken with honesty and dignity. When the Bill resumes, I hope that the Minister will table some amendments. It would be important.

I thank the departmental staff, the Minister, the Minister of State and the good lady who sat beside them earlier for their patience. Like us all, the Minister went from side to side to be as briefed as possible. I thank the Chairman, the committee staff and the people behind the glass, who we do not always see but who hear us. I hope that we will continue in the same format.