Eugene Regan (Fine Gael)

I welcome the Minister of State's proposal to replace the words "severe hardship" with "undue hardship". It was one of the main concerns raised on Second Stage in the discussions in this and the Lower House. There is still concern that the board does not have the discretion that the Minister of State suggests it has. This may be resolved through the relevant statutory instrument. The amendment is welcome but we can review the matter on Report Stage and reserve the right to decide whether further amendment is required.