Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I hear what the Deputy is saying. In the first instance, we have engaged with all of the political parties on this Bill.

I feel they are going to work with women. Women are first here with regard to who they want to take up the position as temporary substitute. I do not see political parties standing in the way of who they would nominate. I hope I am not being naive in that but I genuinely do not think so, having engaged with them. I have huge confidence in and am very proud of all the 949 councillors in this country. They are very genuine people and they will facilitate the spirit of this legislation. If we have to get more prescriptive in future, we will do so but it will be a very bad day for this country if we have to.