Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)

When the heads of this Bill were drafted originally, the advancement of human rights, social inclusion and social justice were included in the general scheme of the Bill as charitable purposes. However, these references were removed later and this is an issue that is of particular concern to the charity sector. There are concerns that some charities, whose main focus is the prevention of the violation of human rights, may be excluded. Deputy Higgins has explained the issue very well and those who are promoting human rights through the operation of charities should be protected in any way possible. I ask the Minister of State to reconsider this amendment. While Members do not wish to push this issue to a vote, they may be so obliged on the basis the Minister of State is not prepared to do something in this regard. Great concern exists in this regard and those who deal with human rights do so for the good because no one else is available to represent such people and to fight for their causes. Deputy Higgins has outlined this point very well and I support him. I ask the Minister of State to reconsider this matter to ascertain whether the amendments under discussion can be taken on board.

See this speech in context