Jonathan O'Brien (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

As we had this debate when we were discussing section 21, I do not intend to rehash all of the arguments made. I appeal to the Minister to step back and reconsider pressing ahead with the section. As I said when I was discussing section 21, the attention of the teacher unions will once again focus on the position Fianna Fáil has taken. Fianna Fáil Members suggested they were going to abstain in the vote on section 21 and, presumably, section 33. In effect, that will allow the sections to be passed because the Minister has given Fianna Fáil a fig leaf. A report is to be commissioned and laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas within three months of the enactment of the Bill. That is a flimsy reason for Fianna Fáil Deputies to sit on their hands. Certainly, it will not go unnoticed by the teacher unions. If it does, I will not be long in reminding them of it.

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