John Gerard Hanafin (Fianna Fail)

Senator Tuffy is right when she says there is a responsibility on all third level institutions to ensure that people from various backgrounds, particularly those with disabilities, are included. The record has been abysmal, but one must admit that significant progress has been made by each college. The higher education access committee has done considerable work in this regard, not only by way of providing funding, but also by providing guidance.

I draw the Senator's attention to section 21D on the equality policy, which clearly states that the governing body must "require the Director to prepare a statement of policies of the college" in respect of access for persons who are socially or economically disadvantaged, have a disability or are significantly under-represented and to prepare a policy in respect of equality, including gender equality. It is interesting that the governing body must approve and implement the policy. The Senator's concerns about access and disability are covered in the Bill. This policy provision is similar to that in the Universities Act.

On taking amendments, the Senator is aware that I have previously accepted Seanad amendments to other Bills. It is not a question of today's timing. If something is worth accepting, I am always happy to do so.