Ivana Bacik (Independent)

I refer to a matter raised yesterday on the Order of Business by Senators Zappone and Norris, namely, the proposed merger of the Irish Human Rights Commission and the Equality Authority. In opposition many others in the Labour Party and I were very clear in our support for the agencies in question. No one is against the merger per se, but we all want to ensure it brings about an effective entity and maximises the resources available for the protection of equality and human rights in this country. Nobody is more concerned about these matters than me and the Tánaiste, with whom I have raised the matter.