Jillian van Turnhout (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank everyone wholeheartedly. I thank the Minister for her input and for participating so actively in the debate. I thank my Independent colleagues for giving up our group's time for this motion. It shows their strength of feeling. In particular, I thank Senator O'Donnell, who seconded the motion.

It is unique to see unanimous support in the Seanad. It is heartening and empowering that, despite our ideological differences, we are able to stand together, speak out for children and protect the sanctity of childhood. As Senator Barrett stated, we are as one.

It is important to remember the right to play under Article 31 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Play is a core foundation block of childhood. Senator O'Donnell stated articulately that child beauty pageants were adult play, not child play. She also referred to power and control over children's play. The Minister's statement that, once stolen, childhood is gone forever is true.

Senator Bacik added information to the debate on Irish dancing. When I first heard about the make-up ban for children aged under ten years, I was a bit dubious, but it is a major step forward. This worldwide movement will make a significant difference. An Comhdháil has in place a similar ban to the Irish Dancing Commission's for the bun and tús grades of 12 years and under. This covers tanning, tinted moisturiser, make-up and false eyelashes. However, it has not banned wigs. I can partly understand. Little girls would be sleeping for the night wearing rollers, whereas a wig is something that can be put on and off. Perhaps we could debate that, but the commission is taking steps in the right direction. These changes are heartening.

It is important to note that one cannot compare a competition such as, for example, playing the piano with child beauty pageants. They are totally different and it is a spurious comparison, as Senator O'Donnell stated. One is a skill, art form or expression whereas the other is sexual, sensual and leering at a young age. There is no discernible skill in child beauty pageants. They are problematic and contrary to the protection of childhood. As we approach International Women's Day, these beauty pageants are a step backwards in our battle for equality.

Several people have referred to France. The law there is progressing, but it has evolved in way that has revealed the difficulties. France is now discussing 13 year olds and younger and reducing the proposed fine. The matter returns to the French Senate on 17 April. I hope that an Irish law is not necessary, but if it is, we have unanimous support in the Seanad and we will lead the charge. I hope that common sense prevails.

The research that the Minister announced is welcome. We will be armed and ready. I hope that our debate sends out a clear message. We have unanimous support. This is a call to action. I hope that the Dáil will pass a similar motion so that we can show that both Houses are as one.

The board of the Irish Hotels Federation has passed a motion to oppose child beauty pageants. The hotels turned away business. I call on parents and the general public to tell their local hotels that they do not support child beauty pageants. People must be firm in their resolve.

The Minister referred to guidelines on the responsible retailing of children's wear. If people have complaints, they should make them. We all have a role to play in protecting childhood.

I offer my heartened thanks. We are as one. Tonight, we have sent a clear, strong and unified message to the effect that there is no place in Ireland for child beauty pageants.