Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I do not often agree with Deputies Coppinger or Boyd Barrett, but in this case I do. I also believe that both mothers and fathers matter a great deal in a child's upbringing. I have had a lot of interaction with an organisation called Mothers and Fathers Matter. I am sure the Minister has met its representatives as well.

I see nothing wrong with a review, as called for in this amendment.

It is complex legislation for which little time has been allowed for debate on the issues involved. In that context, I see no problem with having a review after 12 months and consulting with various groups, including parent support groups, on how the law is bedding in and assessing its impact. I agree with Deputy Boyd Barrett that it should be simple enough to for an unmarried father to make a declaration, particularly if the mother is agreeable. The process should be simple and should not involve people having to jump through numerous hoops. It is the children we should be concerned about, fundamentally. I know lots of single fathers with children who are doing an exceptional job of raising them. A review would be not be any harm and for that reason I support the amendment.

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