Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Seanad for accommodating this legislation. Since its initiation we have developed this legislation to reflect many of the concerns which the Department, the profession representatives and Members have brought to my attention.

I agree this Bill, brought forward by my colleague, the former Minister, Deputy Walsh has had a long gestation. This type of legislation must reflect modern trends.

I thank Senators for their constructive proposals and for working with me to ensure this is the best possible legislation. I thank the two officials who accompany me who have suffered in rewriting this legislation since its initiation and other members of the staff of the Department. Unless one is on this side of the House, one does not appreciate the amount of work involved in drafting legislation and in the consultative process.

I believe the legislation will reflect the concerns of the profession regarding its regulatory needs and equally will address many of the human concerns raised. I thank the House for its support in ensuring the passing of the Bill.