Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. I again point out it is essential that the issues that have caused this anxiety and trauma for children and parents over a number of years, which are growing, are addressed. The use of parental alienation is growing and it appears that, in certain quarters, there is no intention to change. I thank the Minister for outlining the proposals, which she will have to pursue vigorously. From the correspondence I have received from participants, I have no doubt at all of the seriousness of the situation that faces us where, in some cases, children have been forbidden to see their parents, or parents to see their children, for up to two or three years. In some cases, this involves expenditure of more than €100,000 in order for parents to have the privilege of seeing their children. I congratulate the Minister on her work so far. I strongly support what she is doing.

See this speech in context