Michael McCarthy (Labour)

I move amendment No. 1:

In page 7, between lines 28 and 29, to insert the following:

"(3) As soon as may be after the passing of this Act, the Minister shall prepare and lay before both Houses of the Oireachtas, a statement as to the implications of introducing a system of registration of guardianship orders and agreements.".

We debated this amendment at some length on Committee Stage. It is about putting a system in place for a register of guardianship orders and agreements. Many organisations representing birth fathers have called for such a provision.

The Minister made a case for not accepting the amendment but I wonder if she has had an attack of conscience and changed her stance since returning to her constituency. I look forward to her response, particularly if she accepts the amendment.