Mr. Liam Herrick:

We have identified previously some of the issues that are omitted from the Bill that we feel should be included. There are other issues where we feel that recommendations that had been made have only been partially implemented. These include the provisions on redress, time limits, compensation limits, reasonable accommodation and intersectional discrimination. There were opportunities to set the highest standards.

In the European context to which the Deputy referred, we are mindful that Ireland will be taking on the Presidency of the Council of the European Union at the same moment when will have to transpose the standards directive next year. There is a wonderful opportunity for us here to set the highest standards. There have been points in recent decades where Ireland would have been seen at the highest point in Europe for setting standards for equality legislation. That is no longer the case. We have slipped further behind. We say this as a national equality body and as a member of the European network of equality bodies, which would give a comparative perspective on this.

The Members of Oireachtas have consistently articulated aspirations that Ireland should be a leader in this area. Many Deputies and Senators have indicated that today. That requires us, however, to put in the hard work with the legislation.