Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

That is welcome. I was not sure whether there was such a requirement and was actually advised there was not.

This legislation is very significant. For the most part, it is most welcome. There are a number of issues to be addressed, particularly regarding unmarried fathers. With regard to acting in loco parentis, there may be a need for further clarification. The Minister might point out what happens where guardianship has been approved, perhaps for a grandparent, aunt or uncle, because of an addiction problem experienced by a biological parent. If the biological parent wants to resume custody and guardianship, what is the position?

Let me refer to the timeline for the commencement of this legislation. National vetting legislation was passed by the Houses a number of years ago but the commencement order has yet to be signed. While we can debate the Bill in this Chamber and in the Seanad, it is ultimately the responsibility of the Government to sign it. We need a commitment that it will be signed very quickly after it has been debated here in the Houses. We will be proposing amendments to do with unmarried biological fathers. For the most part, the Minister seems to be genuinely interested and she is usually very forthcoming and takes on board suggestions from this side of the House. I ask her to take mine on board. The focus should not be on the relationship between the father and mother. There are exceptionally good fathers who just may not have a good relationship with the mother. All support should be given in such circumstances.

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