Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

I refer to two areas of legislation, one of which was touched on by a colleague. A report published on Tuesday regarding Doctor A indicated a gross failure on the part of State agencies, including the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, to comply with the Children First guidelines. The report contains a recommendation that these guidelines be put on a statutory basis. This is not a new recommendation as it was contained in the Ferns Report, on which the Government promised to act. The response of the Minister of State with responsibility for children to which the Tánaiste referred is grossly inadequate. Does the Government intend to introduce legislation to put these guidelines on a statutory basis?

Deputy Gilmore referred to a case in the High Court yesterday. The Government has studiously ignored the issue involved because it is paralysed by fear, which needs to be addressed. The issue is not simply about partnership legislation. A report was commissioned at substantial expense by the Department of Health and Children to kick into touch the issue of the rights that arise in regard to parents, donors and children when children are born as a result of scientific techniques such as egg or sperm donation. A report commissioned by the Government recommends the introduction of legislation in this area. The Government has abdicated its responsibility in this area because it is paralysed by fear. Is it intended to introduce legislation to deal with this important issue?

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