Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This is the debate we had earlier. While I can understand what the Deputies are seeking to do, amending these sections would not in any way change the Equal Status Act 2000 and would not have the effect that Deputies intend. I have, however, indicated that we will deal with the Equal Status Act 2000 and when we make whatever changes are agreed there will be consequential changes in this legislation. Changing this legislation does not alter the Equal Status Act 2000. For that reason I cannot support the amendments.