Ivana Bacik (Independent)

I, too, welcome the passing of the Bill which will provide for the better regulation of charitable organisations, its primary purpose. We all accept it is generally a positive Bill. Putting in place a proper framework, in statutory form, for the regulation of charitable organisations is long overdue and in that regard the Bill is to be welcomed.

I have some regrets, including that the Bill as passed is not somewhat more inclusive in terms of definitions and, in particular, that the advancement of human rights, sports bodies and humanism is not included. The Bill could have gone further than simply maintaining the status quo on those issues. I welcome the Bill which will provide for a much greater, efficient, effective and better regulated charitable sector, for which all of us are grateful.