Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

It can only be helpful to our deliberations to have all diverse views put forward. Perhaps the CPP would again consider this matter.

I compliment Senator Zappone on her very graphic contribution this morning on impaired hearing and on her desire that all Members of this House should play a full and meaningful role. The Senator has done a service not just to the operation of the Oireachtas but to all those people who have impaired hearing. If one recalls the taboo that was once attached to disability, one can now see how ridiculous it was. Society has moved forward and has become much more mature in this regard. The points made by Senator Zappone are worthy of much broader consideration. I ask the Leader to arrange, with the appropriate Oireachtas committee, or as part of the new consultative process we are considering, for Senator Zappone to be invited to one of the meetings, along with other Members who have an interest in this area. Those interests are very wide and deep.

To some extent, there is still a stigma, or a perceived stigma, attached to some disabilities. This is certainly true regarding impaired hearing. I hope this matter will not be allowed to slide away to the sidelines. We have an opportunity based on the research Senator Zappone has done and on her graphic contribution this morning. Let it not pass without our availing of it. There are opportunities within the committee structure to do as proposed. If so, the Seanad will be to the fore in taking a stand on this matter.