Feargal Quinn (Independent)

I thank Senators Kett and Terry for their kind words. Setting targets for people is a great way of trying to achieve something. It appears that Senator Terry's amendment is very worthy. Even if it is difficult to achieve, it sets standards that others strive to attain. I know that many employers around the country who did not realise that the Government had set a target of 3% until it was publicised began to strive to achieve it themselves once they discovered its existence. I think of the Aisling Foundation and the O2 ability awards, which have done so much to draw attention to this issue. It acts as a real incentive.

There is a danger that people outside think of people with disabilities solely as wheelchair users. We are talking about all of the talents that so many others who are not necessarily in wheelchairs possess. They could be blind or deaf or have another type of disability and discover that they have abilities that are worthy if we manage to tap that resource. It is good for business and customers like to see a company doing something of this kind. Therefore, I support Senator Terry's amendment.