David Cullinane (Sinn Fein)

I move amendment No. 8:

In page 8, to delete lines 33 to 51, to delete page 9 and in page 10, to delete lines 1 to 26

As the Minister is aware, this is essentially the same as section 4 with the exception that it relates to the transitional arrangements where categories of children may fall between stools because of their age. I accept we are making the same point again but I call on the Minister to support it. I was unable to make the earlier stages of the debate because I have just travelled from the dentist. The Cathaoirleach will be pleased to learn I have that sorted out and I am back to full health again.

I do not like the way the Constitution is phrased. Article 41.2.2° of the Constitution states: "The State shall, therefore, endeavour to ensure that mothers shall not be obliged by economic necessity to engage in labour to the neglect of their duties in the home." Obviously, I have a grave difficulty with the way this is phrased.