Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

We discussed this matter a number of times and I have outlined the position with regard to "person" and "father". Because of the presumptions in law, one is a person until one is registered as the father. The Attorney General has advised me with regard to progressing these legislative proposals. The section reflects best practice. I am sure the Deputies appreciate that I would not be in a position to accept these amendments on the basis that they would provide a presumption which, in law, cannot be accepted.

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