John Gerard Hanafin (Fianna Fail)

The debate on the Civil Partnership Bill 2009 is due to take place in the House tomorrow and on Thursday. At this late stage, I request that the leader of the Green Party in the House should see to it that a free vote is allowed on the legislation. There is a mood among members of the public to the effect that there has not been full and frank debate on this matter. The lack of such a debate in the Dáil could be compensated for by ensuring the Bill is fully discussed in this Chamber. If this matter had been dealt with properly, a referendum would have taken place. I again call on the leader of the Green Party in the Seanad, who has some significant influence in this area, to seek a free vote on the Bill. I am aware that many of my colleagues would like such a vote to take place.

In light of the fact that the economy could recover quite strongly in 2011 and 2012, I again request that consideration be given to the position with regard to jobs. In particular, I am of the opinion that the allowances that were previously provided in respect of property-related developments should be transferred to jobs-related developments.