Thomas Byrne (Fianna Fail)

I recall that after care was a major political issue when the Bill previously came before the House. When my party was in government it took tremendous flak for not agreeing to the proposal by various interest groups to include a provision on after care in legislation. I accept that such proposals were made in good faith. At the time, the Minister indicated that the issue was already covered in law. I understand this is the reason the current Minister would cite for not providing for after care in the Bill. It is strange, therefore, that the major campaign undertaken on this issue when the Fianna Fáil Party was in power has not been repeated in respect of this Bill. Instead, the Minister's assurances on the issue appear to be accepted, despite being exactly the same as those given by my party on the legal provision for after care. The Government has adopted the same position as the previous Government.