John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

While I am not sure about Senator Terry's amendment, it is clear that she has raised an important issue. I was contacted by representatives of the Kildare network of People with Disabilities in Ireland. They said the possibility that the Bill might undermine some of the strengths of the Equal Status Acts is of pressing concern to them. They have called on Senators to keep that possibility in mind during the debate on this Bill, especially as the Equal Status Acts seem to be working reasonably well for people with disabilities. I said on Second Stage that I think the provisions of the Equal Status Acts cover any circumstances which are not covered by this Bill. It is important for the Minister of State to clarify this issue so that there is no confusion about it.