Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

I move amendment No. 2:

In page 11, subsection (6)(a), line 18, after "opinion" to insert the following:

"and subject to confirmation by a medical practitioner".

I am sure, not being a medical practitioner, that the Minister of State will accept the provision in the Bill does not seem reasonable. We would normally respect the Minister of State's opinion. However, as it relates specifically to someone not being able to perform his or her duties through ill health, might it not be reasonable to make it subject to confirmation by a medical practitioner? I look forward to hearing the Minister of State's response.