Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

If the Senator had been here for my initial comments he would understand what is going on. It might be best if he was careful in his consideration of the complexities of equality on the basis of equal treatment. Many people who thought they were in a particular position changed their points of view when I indicated to them that it may be detrimental to their interests to have the ethos of equality administered. It is on that basis that, as I indicated in my speech, I will be reviewing this issue in its entirety, taking into account its complexities and its relevance not only to the social welfare code but to tax law and many other legislative provisions within the State.

I am providing in section 23 and Schedule 2 of the Bill for additional amendments to the Pensions Act 1990. These are mainly technical in nature and a number of them are consequential on the equal treatment provisions.

This Bill builds on the progress made in the area of social inclusion by this Government. It is based on objectives contained in the programme for Government and the commitments made in the social partnership document, Sustaining Progress, and reflects the principles of the revised national anti-poverty strategy. It also contains measures designed to ensure prudent management and robust safeguards for the social welfare code. I commend the Bill to the House and look forward to a constructive debate.