Michael Brennan (Progressive Democrats)

I thank Senators for their thoughtful consideration of the legislation and enlightening and useful contributions. I am also grateful to my colleagues in the Dáil who examined the Bill in a rigorous but fair manner. As always, I must say a special word of thanks to my over-worked officials who have spent many years bringing this legislation to the Statute Book. They have been engaged in the process under various Ministers since 2001. I thank the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel for the extensive work it did on the Bill.

I thank the Department's disability consultative forum and the disability legislation consultative group, DLCP, which did Trojan work. The DLCP includes the Disability Federation of Ireland, Mental Health Ireland, Inclusion Ireland, the National Federation of Voluntary Bodies, the Not-for-Profit Business Association, People with Disabilities in Ireland, the National Disability Authority and others.

I thank the chairperson, board and managers of Comhairle, which will shortly become the Citizens Information Board if or when the President signs the legislation. Throughout the legislative process Comhairle has worked closely with the Department and continues to provide a fine service. With its new title, mandate, legislation and responsibilities for advocacy, it will have a heavy workload in ensuring citizens and immigrants alike who seek assistance, advice and information from the Citizens Information Board are guided in the right direction on how to access a range of State services, not exclusively in the area of social welfare. Information reduces the pressure people feel, particularly vulnerable people who need information at traumatic times in their lives. I hope the new Citizens Information Board can be a beacon of hope for such people and guide them towards full access to their entitlements. I thank Senators and the Acting Chairman, Senator Brady.