Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Chairman, in particular. The Chairman and I, along with a few people in the Visitors Gallery, started on this journey approximately 20 years ago. We were constantly told that this would never be done. As the Chairman rightly did, I sincerely thank the Opposition for its interest and the members of the committee who have supported this engagement. That has been important. Above all else, I thank those from the non-governmental bodies who will get no reward from any of this other than to ensure that as we age, we are treated in society in a better and more respectful way in whatever circumstances we find ourselves.

The officials have been working on this legislation for two years. It is an entirely different Bill from the one that was originally produced. This is down to the fact that the officials were prepared to be open with, and to listen to, those outside the Houses who had a view on this. I thank the Chairman for his efficiency.