Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)

It could lead to abuse but if the provision did not exist, there would be even more abuse because the disabled person would not get the job in the first place. We have discussed this with people who represent the disabled and they are very enthusiastic about it. Any provision brought in to help people can be subject to abuse, but that should not stop one from trying to help them if one can.

On discrimination against young people trying to obtain car insurance, we have for the first time removed the lower age limit of 18 in respect of insurance matters. We are saying that anybody of any age, including a 17 year old with a driving licence, can as a result of this legislation make a claim stating he or she is being discriminated against in so far as insurance is concerned.

Reference was made to remarks made during the week by two of my colleagues in the Lower House on women travelling to the Council of Europe. I join with everybody in deploring and regretting those remarks and I dissociate myself and the Government from them entirely. I thank Senators for their contributions and I am sure we will have a very lively and informed Committee Stage debate on the Bill.