Fintan Warfield (Sinn Fein)
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I refer to objective 8(b) in the strategy which relates to the prohibition of conversion therapy. Our Private Members' Bill prohibiting conversion therapy has passed Second Stage in the Seanad. It would be the most comprehensive ban in the world. Some would argue it is a reach into religious freedom but we are talking about vulnerable people. In many parts of the world, its use has been prohibited in the cases of young people and minors. My view is that anyone seeking access to conversion therapy is vulnerable and should be protected from those who seek to take advantage of their vulnerability.

We have been met with goodwill from the Department of Health. Legislative progress has been slow due to Brexit. I understand the Department of Justice and Equality proposes to undertake research into the extent of the use of conversion therapy in the State, something that the Department of Health had floated during the debate on Second Stage. We do not need research to know that it is happening in Ireland as it is apparent that organisations exist that offer to repress, suppress or eliminate a person's sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. Should extensive research on this delay a Bill to the point where legislation may not be introduced in this term? What if the Department of Justice and Equality establishes that it is not that apparent and that two organisations is not sufficient to warrant a legislative ban, despite the ongoing practice in the State and that a legislative ban could also stop parents sending minors abroad to access summer camps which emphasise "praying away the gay", as we hear it described sometimes? Has the Minister had engagements with the Department of Health? Does the Minister support a legislative ban even if there are only one or two organisations which offer the practice? The British Government undertook the largest survey of gay people I have come across in which this issue arose. It is primarily an issue in faith-based practices and organisations. I am not that hopeful and do not anticipate legislative change at the moment, given our experience to date. Has the Minister anything to say on this? Can she give the Bill any support?