Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Cathaoirleach Gníomhach for the opportunity again. I just wanted to point out that, in fairness, Tusla is bound by the in camera rule, and anything that is affected by the in camera rule in any other quarter is restricted. It is not possible to get the degree of information or to challenge those who may have questions to answer in cases where the in camera rule applies. However, with regard to that last point that was made, the Minister has now indicated a change with regard to the qualification of those who are allowed to become expert witnesses in family law. I think that will have a big bearing on the kinds of things we have been talking about.

The final point I want to make concerns what brought this to my attention in the first place, namely children having been torn away from their mothers, effectively having been arrested and put into the custody of somebody else. There is nothing as heartrending as the case of a mother who sees her child or children being taken away and handed into somebody else's custody, particularly if she fears for their safety. It is not sufficient to tell her there is no need to worry and that the children will be quite safe. That does not reassure in those cases. The maternal instinct or bond is the strongest bond known in the human or animal world and we have to respect that. We understand something is about to be done, and I hope it is. I will continue to support those who continue to pursue these objectives.

Unfortunately, I have to leave as I have another matter coming up. I wish everyone well.