Jonathan O'Brien (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for her clarification on the amendment. Certainly, I will take on board some of what the Minister has said. The purpose of the amendment is not to deal with cases of dismissals - such cases are already dealt with in the legislation under section 22(3) - but any cases of penalisation that amount to less than dismissal. For example, if a man's conditions were looked upon unfavourably or if he was not considered for promotion because he exercised his right to paternity leave, then some sanction would be in place.

I will take on board what the Minister has said and I will try to come up with a better wording for the amendment on Report Stage. I am willing to withdraw the amendment at this stage but I am giving notice that I will look to try to come up with better wording for the amendment on Report Stage.