Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent)

Now the Minister lectures us about the difficulties and risks involved in the Bill. He says that young people will be traumatised in court and that it will not be gender-neutral. It is because of his inaction that we find ourselves in Dáil Éireann today, struggling, panic-stricken and rushing through legislation hoping we get it right, while the Minister tells us that when the dust settles he will be proven right. This should not be about the Minister, it should only be about protecting children.

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