Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

I welcome the Minister of State, Deputy O'Dea. I join with other speakers in welcoming the facilitating manner in which the Minister, Deputy Michael McDowell, and the Minister of State have taken account of the positive suggestions and recommendations contained in amendments to the Bill. At first glance, when I saw that 43 amendments had been made to the Bill in the Dáil, it raised the question as to how thoroughly the legislation was examined in this House. However, many of the significant amendments, some of which are technical in nature, arose as a result of the debate in this House. The legislation has benefited from the thought-provoking debate that took place here because many suggestions made were considered in finalising the Bill. While some of the amendments were technical, others will enhance the import of the Bill.

It is important to tease out equality legislation. Sometimes, we receive reports from various bodies dealing with equality issues but they are not always grounded in common sense. It must be recognised that people are not equal — they are different. People have different levels of ability, aspirations and ambitions. In many ways, they want to pursue their own course in life. It is essential, however, that people should have equality of opportunity, so our legislation must be grounded in that respect. In any event, equality is the cornerstone of good republican philosophy.

I welcome the amendments that have been made by the Dáil and I look forward to the implementation of the Bill which consequently will have a beneficial impact for a number of people.