Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I appreciate that, but I am due to speak during Private Members' time later.

It is very positive that we are here today. The expert group published a report in July 2012 and we have been waiting a long time for this day to come. We had a good discussion on the Bill on Second Stage prior to the summer recess. Many of the amendments I have submitted were drawn up in consultation with several children's organisations in an effort to improve the legislation. I certainly hope what we are going through today is not just for show. I hope the Minister is here with an open mind and willing to take on board suggestions from members of the Opposition, as well as from members of the Government parties. I hope all committee members will support those amendments which would improve the legislation.

A number of amendments have been ruled out of order because they involve a potential charge on the Exchequer. I am disappointed by this because the amendments speak to several areas identified by the expert group, namely, child and adolescent mental health services, public health nurse services and childminding services. It is disappointing that we cannot have a full and frank debate on these issues. While I must accept that the amendments have been ruled out of order, I am disappointed nonetheless.

For my part, I am here to be constructive. I have tabled amendments following consultations with various community groups and representative bodies in the child care sector. I hope we are not here for show and that our suggestions will be taken on board by the Minister.