Joe Behan (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)

I welcome the introduction of the Bill, which is timely, if not long overdue considering it was a commitment in the previous programme for Government. It is important to note the positive contribution made by Deputy Stanton, who indicates a strong measure of support for and agreement with the principles of the Bill. In the light of statements by his party spokesperson on other issues in education, perhaps when the Bill comes for eventual decision he might consider supporting it in the House. The reality is that he probably will not do so because he is operating under the system we on this side also operate under.

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