Averil Power (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I strongly welcome the inclusion of the new provision. It is important to increase the visibility of family court proceedings as it will improve confidence and reassure people that there is consistency across the board. The provision will shine a light on what has often been a very secretive area of Irish law. However, it is essential that we have watertight provisions to protect people's identity, particularly of children and families involved in cases. The Minister mentioned the Children's Rights Alliance. Barnardos strongly welcomed the Bill but expressed the concern that there is a risk that children could be intimidated and discouraged from testifying by having too many members of the press present or being worried about their identify being exposed. I welcome the provisions and I am glad that the Minister has taken those concerns on board. Between now and Report Stage I will consult the children's organisations again to see if they have any other suggestions. Today, he has put forward a good and comprehensive list and I welcome it.