Mark Wall (Kildare South, Labour)

I thank the Minister. We have spoken about this already today, as the Minister rightly said. It is encouraging to see the number of people who have been rewarded. We have spoke about women and their contribution. That is reflected in the numbers the Minister has presented. They are the ones that unfortunately had to stay at home in many cases to look after children. They get their due reward through this 20-year contribution that the Government has made. It is worthwhile and positive that we have the figures now so that we can encourage more people to apply for it. I look forward to more people availing of this contribution, and rightly so, for the work they have done in the home over so many years.

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