Seanad debates

Thursday, 8 November 2012

Matter raised under Standing Order 30

 

3:30 pm

Photo of Fidelma Healy EamesFidelma Healy Eames (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for attending and Senator Norris for deeming this a matter of national urgent importance.

Nothing changes our position. We still advocate a "Yes" vote as strongly as ever. In fact, it reinforces its importance and urgency. Perhaps it makes our case even stronger. Rather than seeing us as being derailed a little at this hour, let us strengthen our resolve. It shows we must get the vote out in even stronger numbers in the next 36 hours.

It is important to state repeatedly, as others have, that the Supreme Court ruling does not affect the substantive wording of the referendum. The referendum is about the protection of vulnerable children. It is about that 1% who will need help and protection. It is about supporting families that may go through vulnerable times and about the equality of all children in adoption terms.

The timing of this ruling is poor. Let us ward against what happened with the referendum on Oireachtas inquiries with the former Attorneys General coming out at the eleventh hour. The message that must go out to the public is that we need to hold our resolve on this.

I abhorred the words of Mr. John Waters on Monday night on "The Frontline" because of the way he derailed and debased foster parents.

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