James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am aware that the age profile of many of those involved means that time is of the essence from their point of view. I certainly do not want any undue or unnecessary delay and this is one of the areas that we are examining very closely. We must have regard to legal advice. I know that creates problems from Deputy Daly's point of view but the law is there for a good reason, in fairness. I am actively looking at this issue and will endeavour to do everything I can to reduce the lead-in period, while also making sure that it is sufficiently long so as not to create a problem for the Bill or to undermine it from a legal point of view. We must be very careful here in terms of unforeseen consequences. The last thing I want, having got this Bill to this point, is to have it challenged in court and struck down. People have waited a long time for this. I am very aware of the sensitivities involved and know the hurt that people feel. I also know that sometimes they think we have been a bit too legalistic in our approach but we must make sure that the Bill succeeds and gives them what they want, which is a right to their identity. At the same time, the Bill also provides for a proactive approach in that when someone registers, we will actively find a contact for him or her.

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