Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)

On behalf of the Technical Group, I broadly support the motion. Like the previous speaker, I congratulate the Government on appointing the first ever full Minister to Cabinet for this important portfolio. I was delighted to table a parliamentary question and have it answered ar an chéad lá a bhí an Aire anseo for Question Time on Tuesday. We cannot shoot the messenger and we cannot decide what the media want to cover. I compliment the Ceann Comhairle on reversing his decision earlier. Most people dealing with children are genuine and interested in child care and aftercare for children. There is not the usual banter about financial issues when this is debated. However, I compliment Deputy Ó Caoláin on pursuing the issue with the Ceann Comhairle and on retaining his composure during a heated debate. He made a good case, the Ceann Comhairle gave him a good ear and reversed his decision.

I am disappointed with the Government's move. There have been many changes and U-turns on various issues in its first 100 days but that is politics and we are in a difficult period. I was on the Government benches during the previous Dáil and supported the Government at the time even though I had lost the whip. At the time Deputies Charles Flanagan and Jan O'Sullivan tabled an almost identical amendment to the one turned down earlier by the Government. We have to retain credibility among the many groups supporting children such as Focus Ireland and the many families who give unstinting service in the care of foster children and children of care. They are often ignored by all the institutions and get no support and have no groups to look after them. Nonetheless, I am glad we have had a change of tack. It is a pity that politics has been played. I acknowledge it is not the Minister's fault and I wish her all the best because I know how suited she is to the Ministry. I hope she will be magnanimous for the sake of the children in considering the amendments.

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