Alex White (Labour)

This section deals with the determination by the HSE that a child requires special care. Amendment No. 12, in my name, relates to a similar issue of consultation in the context of a different section, which deals with the functions of the HSE when providing special care. I am proposing that consultation should be provided for in such circumstances. I have listened to the comments of Senators and the Minister of State. Having read this section of the Bill, it seems that it contains a mandatory requirement for consultation. The basic provision in this section is a mandatory requirement for consultation to take place. Senator Fitzgerald is seeking to remove a subsection that provides for an exception to the mandatory requirement that there should be consultation. I think I am right in that regard.