Feargal Quinn (Independent)

Earlier on, the Cathaoirleach told Senator Leyden that Senator O'Toole could not reply to a point he made. While I do not often act as a mouthpiece for Senator O'Toole and will not attempt to do so now, I think what Senator O'Toole would have said to Senator Leyden would have been what we have just heard stated now on Senator Leyden's side of the House.

There is absolutely nothing to stop a claimant consulting a solicitor. Senator Leyden said the legislation would exclude the family lawyer. There is nothing in this Bill to exclude the family lawyer, who can certainly help in completing the application form. Senator Cummins spoke about people going before the board and feeling uneasy because of lack of capability or experience. People will not go before the board. This is a paper-based system. There is nothing to stop a lawyer helping someone to prepare a letter of application.