Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputies. As Deputy Ciara Conway has done, I refer committee members to page 10 of the Bill and the definition of family. Section 8(1)(c) is sufficiently broad to capture the intent of the amendment proposed. It is important to note that the definition of a family is broader than just parents and guardians. We must take account of the full scope covered by the definition on page 10. The insertion of the role of parent or guardian as integral to the achievement of paragraph (b) does not add anything to create or recognise a specific role for parents or guardians in supporting and promoting the development, welfare and protection of children. This matter is already provided for under the Constitution. The legislative framework and other legislation relating to the functions of the agency are all framed and bound by the constitutional commitment to the family. This provision is not required to underpin the role of parents. As in the case of any other statute provision, it is to be interpreted within the constitutional framework, but primarily I point to the definition of family in the Bill, which is very inclusive. It is broader than that suggested in the amendment which I will not accept for these reasons.