Clare Daly (Dublin North, Socialist Party)

I move amendment No. 15:

In page 11, line 27, to delete "classes" and substitute "categories".

This amendment, which we raised on Committee Stage, reflects a minor issue in regard to the use of language. Some survivors have objected to the reference in the Bill to "classes" of former residents. Specifically, there was a feeling, given that most of the people who ended up in these institutions came from disadvantaged backgrounds, that it was reference to their socioeconomic background. As such, they expressed the view that a word such as "categories" would be better than "classes". The Minister of State, Deputy Sean Sherlock, pointed out at committee that the reference to "classes" might refer to a particular period of time or to some geographic area. I totally accept that there is a basis for categorising groups of former residents in this way. My point, however, in view of the concerns expressed by survivors, is that it would be just as easy to use the word "categories" rather than "classes" in this instance. As well as providing greater clarity, this change would take cognisance of the sensitivity expressed by some survivors. I will not fall out with the Minister on the issue. It is not unimportant, nor is it decisive. It is, however, something which could be easily changed.

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