Máire Hoctor (Tipperary North, Fianna Fail)

I do not propose to accept this amendment. The form of words used in the Bill to describe cohabiting couples is the standard form used in many Acts of the Oireachtas. To amend the language of the Bill in the manner proposed could have implications for other legislation referring to cohabiting couples. I cannot indicate what these implications might be, but for that reason the safest course is to oppose the amendment.