David Norris (Independent)

I wish to give a clear and specific example, if I may. I knew of a young man who had various difficulties. He had been subjected to aversion therapy because he was gay. His family was from rural Ireland and was very harsh in that regard. He was seriously distressed by this but, with great courage, pulled himself together. He was allocated a flat in the inner city which certainly met his housing needs. However, some of his neighbours learned of his sexual orientation and made his life a misery. They put excrement through his letter box, tried to burn him out, stole his post and so forth. Eventually I managed to get him accommodation in a sheltered housing complex in Donnybrook which transformed his life.

This is precisely the kind of case that would be addressed by Senator Bacik's amendment. The authorities could clearly say his housing needs were met in that they provided him with an adequate flat which had a kitchen, shower, bedroom and so forth. However, because of the hostility of his neighbours, the accommodation did not prove to be appropriate. He moved into a complex largely occupied by old ladies and got on like a house on fire. They adored him and he was great at doing bits and pieces for them.

That is an example which puts a human face on the issue. It may seem like a slight amendment with which the Minister of State need not bother but Senator Bacik has hit on an important point here. I ask the Minister of State to reflect on the case history I have given in considering this amendment. Of course, he does not have to say "yea" or "nay" now. He can always say he will think about it and we can do battle again on Report Stage.