Finian McGrath (Dublin Bay North, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Members for their contributions. I value their suggestions and ideas. I also value the debate about equality and on citizens of the State demanding and getting equality.

Two matters struck me. First, Deputy Clare Daly used the words "bank" and "build". We must bank on this legislation but there is much building to be done in the future as well with regard to putting in place services for the deaf community. I accept that argument. What Deputy Ó Caoláin said was also important. He congratulated and commended, saying "well done" to everybody. Everybody refers to all of my colleagues across the House and the members of the deaf community, who worked together, and particularly Senator Mark Daly. It was difficult. There were difficult negotiations and a couple of rows, but we got over them in the interests of the deaf community. However, to return to the issue at hand, we must bank and build.

Another matter arose during the debate. I am delighted the Government has decided to proceed with the ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This Bill is part of that process. We are putting in place legislation. The precise timetable and sequence of events for the ratification will become clearer. We will bring the detailed process back to the Government and the formal process will begin early in the new year. A motion must be passed by the Dáil under Article 29.5.2 of the Constitution, which states, "The State shall not be bound by any international agreement involving a charge upon public funds unless the terms of the agreement shall have been approved by Dáil Éireann". I appreciate the support today and I would also appreciate the support of the House when that motion comes before the Dáil.

I thank Members for their suggestions. This is an important civil rights issue involving the right to have the Irish Sign Language recognised officially. The rights of citizens are very important but there must be services to support those rights. The debate today is part of that process.

The €10 million in extra money allocated in recent days for respite care was another part of the process. We are taking steps in the right direction and, again, I thank all my colleagues for their great support and Senator Mark Daly for his magnificent work on this legislation.

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