Erin McGreehan (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for their statements. We really appreciate them appearing before the committee because today's sessions are really important for the Bill. It is brilliant they are here.

The following question is for Ms Kiernan. In the opening statement, there was mention of DNA. There was also mention in the previous session of a DNA database and having accurate information. In the previous session, we also continuously heard about not being able to trust the so-called records and the information that is in those files. I want to ask Ms Kiernan her opinion on getting a DNA database that the State would recognise so that one would be able to know who one's family are legally.

Ms Kiernan mentioned the small group of 441. The Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Deputy O'Gorman, stated last month, in the context of illegal birth registrations, that it was a small group of 441. Ms Kiernan used 151 as her base number. What is the impact of those numbers for Ms Kiernan's group?

I thank Ms McEvoy for the clarification in respect of the mothers. That cuts out all other labels because, after all, a mammy is a mammy, and Ms McEvoy is a mother. My children call me some things, but I am also their mother. I thank Ms McEvoy for that clarification as well.