Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

That is a matter for my Department which would make a determination. It has created much concern, but the primary carer is the rule we use. If a woman or a man is the primary carer, he or she is entitled to child benefit.

I thank the Cathaoirleach for facilitating this debate. We have listened to many of the concerns expressed, many of which have been addressed in the revised legislation before us. I look forward to ensuring we have an excellent, modernised public service civil registration system which reflects the fact that this nation has moved well beyond 1844.