Sheila Terry (Fine Gael)

——there will not be the prospect of having to grant maternity leave. This is of great concern to those of us who dealt with the legislation. I ask the Leader to ensure that the Minister for Justice, Equality and Women's Rights will keep us informed of any indication in the market that discrimination is taking place in this respect. Women find it difficult enough to hold down a job while running a household as well. It would be totally unacceptable if discrimination came into play because of legislation improving maternity leave.

I fully support Senator O'Meara's call for a debate on work-life balance and flexible working hours. In that context, we should debate the discrimination which may be creeping in. There was an indication yesterday that this could happen or, indeed, is happening. There are such cases. I ask the Leader to keep an eye on this matter.