Damien English (Meath, Fine Gael)

It is a pity the Minister of State cannot consider these amendments. It would not hurt anybody too much to make the changes I have suggested. As I said, I do not think the voices of children are being heard at the partnership talks. If periods of leave like that under discussion are not increased and parents are not given an extra chance, it is a great shame. I accept that there are competing demands at the partnership talks, but we have to give children greater opportunities and give parents extra help. It is a shame that the Minister of State cannot take a step forward by accepting these amendments. I do not believe they would affect anybody or upset those involved in the partnership talks. Given that the Government has held the line on every other issue, the social partners will not beat it with a stick for backing down by accepting one small amendment that will not really affect anybody. It is a shame if that is the way it will be. The pressures of life mean that parents need greater flexibility when they are making their plans. Things can happen to children which mean that parents need to take leave. The opportunity to facilitate that will be lost if these amendments are not accepted.

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