Feargal Quinn (Independent)

In supporting the amendment, I wish to make a point. Senators Healy Eames and Bacik made the point that the amendment clearly places the welfare of the child at the very top. The amendment states "unless the contrary is shown", which means the amendment has taken into account and recognised the very points made by those who believe the amendment should not be accepted. Given the choice, the amendment is in the interests of the child because it insists that unless the contrary is shown, the child should stay with its natural parents if that is at all possible. Because of the term, "unless the contrary is shown", I certainly support the amendment.