Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)

I thank all those who contributed to the debate. When I watched it again last night, I must admit it was most comprehensive, one which could not possibly have taken place with the same fluidity in the other Chamber. There is a different structure in this House and a great deal more freedom which allows different opinions to be expressed, sometimes in a very calm manner and at other times with great passion. It is the type of debate we should have at all times.

As I said previously, we are all agreed that we should act in the best interests of the patient. There are times, however, when a person will not agree that he or she is a patient. This debate has informed me a great deal and we need to have more debates on the issue which is not black and white. There are definite views on either side which are passionately held, but each side is acting in the interests of the patient.

I am glad that we have come to an arrangement and I hope that when the Government produces additional legislation, this issue will form a major part of it. The views expressed will be taken into account and we will produce a Bill which will be rights-based and driven very much by our human rights obligations in regard to mental health issues. As I said yesterday, I still maintain there is very little between us on the subject.