Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Again, I thank Deputy Rabbitte for raising it and my Sinn Féin colleagues for supporting it. I know that everyone brought that interest and concern for lone parents to this discussion. There were areas where the Bill could be improved on in that regard, and that is what this amendment addresses "to be sure to be sure", to bridge the gap, as Deputy Rabbitte said. It is a great privilege to be able to ensure that the law does that. As Deputy Rabbitte mentioned, I acknowledge the hard work of my officials in wanting to find the most creative and effective ways to ensure that the law, particularly through these amendments, will respond to the concerns of lone parents. That is, of course, such a huge part of the Bill, certainly where my own vision is concerned. In putting in place an affordable child care scheme, I am keen to ensure that it is as affordable as possible for people from different income categories as well as being there to support parenting of different forms.

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