Professor Caroline Fennell:

What often happens is that change comes about because one individual is able to very concretely demonstrate how the State has failed. As such, if the optional protocol had been acceded to by Ireland it might have made a difference in the sense of the ability to demonstrate concretely the impact on an individual. It is unfortunate that has to happen. It often happens in situations that change is brought about because of a very visible example of where the State has failed.

It is very clear that the State does not need the protocol to know what has to be done. We know what has to be done. It is really about the issue of delivering on the promise that the State has made with regard to human rights and equality. The equality element speaks to the fact that we really need to have participation by all the citizens. In order for certain people to be able to participate, they need the supports that have been spoken about today to allow them to participate and live a full life where their human rights are respected and they are equal to all citizens of the State. That is what it is about. The Deputy has a point with regard to the protocol and it is something the State should address.