Caít Keane (Fine Gael)

Sweden has a low rate of prostitution. I agree with banning it and ensuring the selling of sex or the purchase of sex is made illegal in this country. Selling sex is legal in Sweden and it has a low rate of prostitution. We must ensure what we do in this country. We have a Constitution in this country. The Minister of State pointed out that our legislation is different to the legislation under the Constitution. The CC v. Ireland case brought it to light here and that is an important point for consideration. I have no wish to rush this.

There is a point to Senator O'Donnell's remarks. The amendment may have been rushed but there is a difference between rushing an amendment and rushing legislation that we cannot change later. I am keen to ensure legislation is in place and I will follow up on it. I will not take my eye off the ball and Fine Gael will not take its eye off the ball. It is in government with the Labour Party. Speaking as a member of Fine Gael I assure the House that we will keep our eye on the ball in this regard because it is as serious a matter to me as a member of Fine Gael as it is to any Member that has spoken today.