Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

I understand that a derogation was allowed for by Europe in respect of nurses, gardaí and members of the Defence Forces. I raised this issue on Second Stage and I could not understand why we adopted the derogation, even though it was available. I thought the Bill should apply to trainee nurses, trainee gardaí and members of the Defence Forces. I brought the matter to the attention of the Garda because I believe it would be helpful to include them in the Bill. However, it is a matter for the Minister and the Government. I understand that a derogation was available and that it was taken up. As someone who worked in Europe, I am aware that we received derogations on many issues but I never came across a derogation on a specific exclusion clause. The Minister of State should review the issue between now and the debate in the Dáil.

Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.

Question, "That section 18 stand part of the Bill.", put and declared carried.

Section 19 agreed to.

NEW SECTION.