Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The decision to change the issues around the legislation was not on foot of the recent legal case. Action was well under way with the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection. This stems from a Government decision in 2016, if my memory serves me correctly. The Government has accepted that the blanket exclusion is not in keeping with the 2003 EU directive. Bringing forward this legislation is a priority.

I want to ensure that when I bring forward the legislation it will be watertight, it will deal with the issue and we will not have to revisit it. I want to ensure it is sorted out once and for all.

The legislation is being pursued. Work is being carried on and it involves the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection and my Department.

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