Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

We all want society and indoor hospitality to reopen safely and sustainably. As legislators, we face extremely difficult choices. Pandemics put manners on the best of us. As humans, we want to exert control and we want answers and solutions, yet a very tiny virus has stopped us in our tracks. However, we are still trying to exert control over our lives, so I understand the Government trying to take one step at a time. In principle, I support that approach. However, we have to learn to live with Covid-19. We cannot, as responsible human beings, ignore the flashing red warning signs from other countries, which have moved faster than us and now have surging numbers in hospitals and of deaths as well as the threat of long Covid. Equally, we must ask how much longer we can remain in the twilight zone of constant uncertainty and apprehension.

In that context, I understand that we are trying to find a pathway that balances risk and public health, but the legislative choices we are faced with today do not adequately strike that balance. Much of what we are being asked to vote on is not based on public health advice, and there are significant issues with this legislation. I am not an expert, but when I am faced with very difficult legislative choices, not recommendations or guidelines, there are red lines that I cannot cross. Some of those red lines include discrimination based on vaccine status, and not just status but also location. A 19-year-old who checks into a hotel can eat and drink indoors, but cannot do so in the restaurant next door. I have serious questions about data protection regarding the vaccination status of individuals and families.

My time is limited and while I expect the Minister's bona fides in trying to move forward, I must say that this legislation is possibly unconstitutional, very likely and probably unenforceable and definitely discriminatory. I just cannot support it.

See this speech in context