Caít Keane (Fine Gael)

On 11 April, the Minister for Education and Skills made an announcement, which was welcomed by the chairperson of the Equality Authority, Ms Angela Kerins, that section 37(1)(b) of the Employment Equality Act would be amended to ensure it cannot be used to discriminate against lesbian, gay and bisexual teachers. Section 37(1)(b) is not explicit in regard to gay and bisexual people but Ms Kerins stated: "It is clear that this clause has reinforced fears of discrimination against lesbian, gay and bisexual workers in religious-run institutions, for example in schools and hospitals and makes it even more difficult for such workers to be open about their sexuality."

Research published jointly by the Equality Authority and the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland in 2007 found that fear associated with section 37 has a significantly negative impact on lesbian, gay and bisexual teachers and that the presence of this provision effectively forces these teachers to avoid seeking employment in given sectors or to take up employment in conditions in which they are compelled to conceal their sexuality. That was published in 2007 and who was in power then?

I welcome the commitment given and the respect shown to Senator Power, with two Ministers coming into this House. I am only a new Senator but I think it is unprecedented that two Ministers would come into the House for an Opposition Bill and give it the support they gave it and a commitment to move it forward.

Senator Power and everybody else can rest assured that I will follow up on this and ensure it comes back to this House because it is serious legislation. The INTO has come out in support of the amendment of the legislation as well. I will follow up on this, so it will not be left to those in opposition to do so.

The Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Shatter, who is a man of his word, and the Minister for Education and Skills, Deputy Quinn, have given a commitment. It is also in the programme for Government. We will ensure it is followed up on. Once again, I congratulate Senator Power on introducing the Bill.