Averil Power (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I explained the rationale behind amendment No. 4 in my opening address. We are discussing the amendments together and the Minister gave his position on amendments Nos. 4 and 21 to 24, inclusive. All of the amendments are structured in the same way. They are about changing terminology and using stronger wording. Amendment No. 21 wishes to substitute the words "is consistent with" with "complies with."

I appreciate the Minister's undertaking that he will consider amendments Nos. 22 and 23 and we can discuss those on Committee Stage. I hope that when he reflects upon them that he will see the wisdom behind them. They are based on a critique of the Bill that was sent to me - as I am sure that it was to many other Members - by the mental health reform group. I am sure the same critique was also sent to the Minister and the Government. The amendments are based on the views of groups that have an intimate understanding of current issues and want them improved. I hope that when the Minister considers the amendments he will see they have merit. We can discuss the issue again on Report Stage and I withdraw amendments Nos. 22 and 23.