Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)

In light of the comments of the Director of Public Prosecutions last weekend and the report published yesterday by the Ombudsman for Children which claimed that the State is falling short in its duty to protect vulnerable children and highlighted a 43% increase in demand for that office's services, will the Leader arrange an urgent debate on children, before the summer recess if possible?

I join Senator Hannigan and others in calling for a debate on civil unions. The legislation due before us is very important. The debate must be devoid of emotion. I respect the views of everyone but there are people in this country who are being marginalised and who are vulnerable. We must treat all our citizens equally. We urgently need a debate.