Katherine Zappone (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his straight response, which he has always given to Members as well as those outside this House. I am not disagreeing with him that this legislation is ground-breaking. I apologise that when I began my remarks this afternoon, I did not welcome again the fact that he has put forward this amendment. When he said on Committee Stage that he would accept my amendment in principle I was flabbergasted and I thanked him, but I do apologise. It is appropriate to express my thanks and say it is great that the Government has brought forward an amendment in regard to the principle. As Senator Bacik said, we are not in disagreement in regard to the principle.

I found Senator Bacik's response, and those of all colleagues, interesting, but the Minister's was especially interesting. He began his comments by referring to the timing of the review. I said that the timing might not be important, but that is important. I acknowledge that and also that the Minister identified that 12-month period. However, I do not know that I would be in agreement that the Minister's amendment is better.