Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

I support the amendment. While I did not contribute on Second Stage, I remember some of the discussion, including the lengthy contribution of my colleague, Senator O'Reilly, on this issue. The Government's amendment is reasonable, practical and sensible.

I have had occasion to send a significant number of mass cards, although I do not want to cross theology and politics. The signatures and stamps on pre-signed cards for sale in supermarkets and shops generally looked suspicious. One would be fearful that the card's recipient would believe that one's sentiments were less than genuine. The amendment will address this concern which has been raised a number of times in recent years and in which the media took a degree of interest. Where concerns about legislation are highlighted from a non-partisan perspective, be it by political sources or those outside the Houses, it is good that certain Departments and civil servants are willing to listen and produce a reasonable response.

In this regard, I welcome the Minister of State's initiative. I am unsure as to who formally sought this amendment, but it is a balanced response to concerns that have been expressed frequently in recent years. The Government is doing the right thing by tabling the amendment.