Seanad debates

Wednesday, 3 October 2012

Thirty-First Amendment of the Constitution (Children) Bill 2012: Committee Stage (Resumed) and Remaining Stages

 

5:15 pm

Photo of Aideen HaydenAideen Hayden (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I am very satisfied with the Minister's response, for which I thank her. When debating issues relating to children and child protection, we must not forget the need to consider the Constitution in its entirety. I had forgotten the State's role as guardian of the common good. Tempting as it is to focus our complete attention on the issue of children's interests, we must remember that this matter falls within a wider context. The State has a duty in respect of the rights and obligations of all citizens, including those who may be involved in litigation concerning children, who may, for the sake of argument, have a disability and who also need and deserve the State's protection.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.