Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

Other issues, such as succession rights, are well articulated in the report of the Law Reform Commission. When a person who has cohabited in a stable and loving relationship gets sick, it can happen that other people interfere and the person's partner gets cut off. If Ireland is the Christian country we like to think it is, that issue will be addressed in a proper way that takes into account the rights of such people. I do not suggest that we should be generous because giving people their rights is not a question of generosity. At the same time, we should take care not to undermine marriage.

Like other Senators, I am disappointed not to have had more time to contribute to this debate. I would have liked to speak about certain aspects of the issue of homosexuality, about which I have firm views. I am sure I will have other opportunities to do so. Senator Norris will return to this issue, which will not go away.