Brian Hayes (Fine Gael)

Gratitude is owed to Senator Tuffy for the proposal of this novel amendment. It would certainly be an innovation. The Senator's point is valid in so far as it only deals with spouses with substantial means. Granting to the court the jurisdiction to determine whether a spouse in such a case could give such an undertaking is flexible. The Minister has said that this is a large step to take. I accept that, but it is an important fact that not everyone who comes before the court is of insignificant means. Could this provision be used to harm another party, particularly the respondent? In bringing forward the amendment, Senator Tuffy has highlighted this important issue.