John Dardis (Progressive Democrats)

Senator Brian Hayes together with Senators O'Toole, Ryan, Norris and Quinn raised the proposed amendment to the Constitution to embody children's rights. I was a member of the all-party committee which considered the matter at great length. Everybody regarded what we came up with as something to which every party could subscribe. It is worth stating extensive consultation took place. Many groups came before the committee and put their points of view to which we listened. I am not sure whether a White Paper would add much to those consultations. Perhaps the greater consultation which now takes place explains why there has been a reduction in White Papers on this and other issues in recent years. I agree with Senator Norris that there is not unanimity on the matter but there is a wide consensus. I do not agree with his remarks on the rights of the individual. The importance of children being specifically referred to in the Constitution was clear to the committee——