Jennifer Whitmore (Wicklow, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

I do not know whether to be horrified by the Minister's admission that he will not accept any of our amendments today or to be thankful for his honesty as we all now know where we stand and that this debate is purely an academic exercise. What we say, no matter how powerful, critical or constructive it is, will not be incorporated in the Bill or considered. That reflects to a large extent the process that has applied to this legislation. The Bill has been rushed, without the pre-legislative scrutiny that it and the women deserved. There was no consultation with the survivors, which is a problem, and it reflects the discussion we are having and the problems many of us have with the Bill.

This is an emotive and sensitive issue and it is clear from the discussions today and yesterday in the Dáil, and the debate in the Seanad, that this issue goes deep for Members of both Houses. It is sensitive and important. I have spoken to Deputies across the Chamber. Some are quite uneasy about the Bill and what will happen once it is passed, including what impact it will have on survivors and their stories and the fact that they will not be able to access their own information. In light of how sensitive and personal an issue this is, we need to reflect on what it may mean for individual Members of this House and the Seanad. There may be people with personal stories that they may not be in a position to discuss or want to discuss. Recognising that the Minister is not accepting amendments, I ask him to allow a free vote on this issue. Will he allow Deputies from Government parties to have a vote of conscience on this because many Members across the House would appreciate that? This is an important issue that runs deep with people and I ask that he consider that.

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