Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank both of our witnesses for coming in for this fantastic presentation today. There is no doubt that the witnesses' expertise and experience is so valuable. I may be a little bit cheeky in taking the credit for suggesting Dr. Fitzpatrick and Dr. Boland as witnesses.

Having a respectful and productive debate around potential constitutional change requires high-quality information and expert input from witnesses such as we have before us today, to ensure this conversation is done right. I am so glad we are having this discussion here in the Oireachtas. I know for a fact that it has been replicated around kitchen tables in communities all over this island. It is important that the experiences of social welfare recipients, whether expressed by the people themselves or through qualitative research, guide our work as legislators.

I really enjoyed Dr. Fitzpatrick's contribution to the hearings of the Seanad Public Consultation Committee and am really glad she has been able to expand on her remarks today. I thank Dr. Boland very much for his very informative presentation. It was very good to listen to both witnesses.

Constitutional change will no doubt have to be underpinned by strong human rights guarantees that emphasise pluralism and equality. Do the witnesses believe explicit economic rights, enshrined in legislation or the Constitution, would help create a foundation for a rights-based social welfare system?