Liam Fitzgerald (Fianna Fail)

This is relevant to the section and, in particular, to section 5. In the interests of a sensible approach to legislation and taking account of all the concerns articulated by the Minister and Minister of State, we should withdraw section 5 from the Bill or seriously consider deferring it until a much more comprehensive approach might be taken in respect of what goes to the very roots of civilised society, namely, the absolutely rampant sexual activity on the part of minors.

I accept that the Minister and Minister of State cannot address that in the context of this Bill. However, it must be addressed if we are to be able to say to the nation that we, as legislators, will do everything to protect and promote the dignity of the human person, be that person a minor or an adult, through legislation and, where necessary, amendments to the Constitution.

Section 5 sends out a very wrong signal.