Pádraig Rice (Cork South-Central, Social Democrats)

I too wish Deputy Donohoe the best and echo his call for investments in libraries. I have raised the issue of Cork city library. We have been waiting four years for a new-build library. Perhaps that is one the Tánaiste could invest in. It would be crucial and would be part of Deputy Donohoe's legacy.

The issue I want to raise is relates to the census. I welcome the decision to include questions on sexual orientation and gender in the next census. For the first time, a hidden part of our population will become visible in official State data. This census data matters because we can measure the health, economic and housing disparities faced by gender and sexual minorities.

However, it comes with challenges. There are concerns in the community around confidentiality. There is a fear of disclosure among older members because of the history of criminalisation by the State. There are also issues with accuracy and under-reporting that will result. It is also regrettable that there is not going to be a question on sex characteristics to include intersex people.

I would like to see the Government take four actions. Research needs to be carried out early next year to better understand these complex issues. There must be concrete steps to ensure that the census is confidential at an individual level. We have to ensure that the new questions are inclusive of intersex people. Finally, I urge the Government to pass the disregard Bill to disregard historical convictions for men, which has been co-sponsored by six Opposition groups.

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