Charlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)

I try to bring my experiences to politics and the experiences I have related are certainly relevant to this discussion.

Deputies Kathleen Lynch and Dooley spoke eloquently about volunteerism, which is something that was very much a part of my background. One of the consequences of the Celtic tiger years was a decline in volunteerism not only because people were too busy but because of concern and fear arising from the talk of various court cases and so on. It is important that we promote volunteerism and ensure there is adequate protection for volunteers. I hope the Government Bill will take account of all that. I urge my Fine Gael colleagues to be patient. They have done a good job and I am sure the Minister will take on board their efforts in bringing forward the Government legislation. I look forward to supporting that legislation.

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