Margaret Cox (Fianna Fail)

I thank the Minister for his forbearance and patience in listening to arguments made by Senators from both sides in their efforts to improve the legislation. Time and again, when the House deals with legislation from the Department of Social and Family Affairs, it is wonderful, as legislators, to be in a position to discuss the bigger picture and philosophical questions as well as the opportunities available to us. For many years, the problem we faced was having too little and not being able to provide for people.

I appreciate the Minister's acceptance of my philosophical reflections on the legislation. I still firmly believe that all State enterprises, including Departments, have a responsibility to ensure that the services they provide are accessible. It is not for us to create systems to make up for failures in such situations. In the short term we may have to deal with such issues, but in the longer term the responsibility must remain with particular Departments. That, however, is a philosophical debate that will continue for many years.

I wish to thank the Minister's officials and all those who work in this area. The legislation will make a huge difference to the lives of many people throughout the country. If we do nothing other than make life better for the people we serve, then we can be justifiably proud of doing so. I thank the Minister again.