Michael Kitt (Galway East, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Senators for their comments. This legislation is about the administration of the passport system and not about social policy or family law, although Senator Alex White's amendments in this regard are well intentioned. We are all concerned about child abduction, which was highlighted in respect of amendment No. 7, but it is not encompassed by this legislation. Other Departments are involved in dealing with such sensitive issues.

Senator White indicated he would withdraw his amendment and consider tabling it again on Report Stage.