I ask the Deputy to allow me to finish; I did not make any remarks towards him.

I do not believe there is an individual in this House who does not abhor recent revelations, and revelations that are not so recent, on sexual and physical abuse in Irish institutions. We are all of the same mind set on this issue; we want full disclosure of what took place, those responsible to take responsibility and those who are feeling hurt and raw to receive some peace of mind and justice at this late stage. That is where we are all at and from where we all must move forward. This issue cannot be turned into one where one political party shouts louder than the other for its own political gain. It is a sensitive issue and must be treated with sensitivity.

The Bill before us is, unfortunately, a premature one. The issues raised in it need much deeper consideration and legal advice. The Taoiseach and members of the Cabinet have met with groups representing survivors of abuse, providing an opportunity for them to voice their concerns and needs. The Government will continue to work with them to ensure that a satisfactory outcome for all involved is reached.

The Taoiseach and Members of Cabinet have also met with the religious congregations and have relayed the view of the Government and the people of the country as a whole on the requirement of further contributions from the congregations. The congregations are currently in the process of compiling reports on their financial positions, which are due to be submitted to Government by mid-July. Following that, a further meeting will be established with them. The Taoiseach has already indicated that a panel of three independent persons will be appointed to assess the material submitted. This represents continuous and meaningful efforts on behalf of all involved to address this very serious issue effectively.

The effort to move the process forward through this Private Members' motion, while it may be well motivated, is premature. We need political unity in the House on the matter, but the motion does not provide that. It is an issue that cannot be rushed in order to have it dealt with quickly. What is vital is that it is dealt with efficiently, satisfying those who have suffered abuse.

The Bill proposes a number of amendments to the redress board. It is suggested that the definition of a "child" should be extended from 18 to 21 years in terms of the redress scheme. Members should be aware that this matter is currently the subject of a Supreme Court appeal. Therefore, any proposal in that regard is inappropriate at the moment.

See this speech in context