Martin Mansergh (Fianna Fail)

We need to make a distinction in this regard. The GRO has a fundamental importance in that it provides documentation which gives all of us various rights during our lives such as access to birth and marriage certificates. It also has a subsidiary role, the genealogical one. I would be concerned if that role were formalised in the way suggested as that would result in the priorities being lopsided. The genealogical side would almost assume primacy. It is an important economic and cultural activity and I would not in any way underrate it but, nonetheless, it is not the primary function of the GRO. Therefore, I support the Minister's position out of conviction rather than any other reason.