Ivana Bacik (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I commend Senator Mary White on using the House yesterday in the way it should be used, namely, to introduce a Bill. I ask the Leader to ensure Committee Stage of the Bill on parental leave is taken when the Government's amendments become available. All of us appreciate the intention behind the legislation and very much approve of it in principle. It was welcome that the Government did not oppose it. Many Senators have spoken about the need to ensure some measure of paternity leave is provided to ensure fathers are given greater responsibility and their role as fathers is given greater recognition in the workplace. It is a welcome Bill and exactly the sort of business for which the Seanad is valued and on which it is commended. It reflects one of the values and strengths the House bring to the Oireachtas.