Katherine Zappone (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I listened to Senator Mullen's arguments, which move beyond his amendment. The Senator's proposal makes reference to Articles 42 and 44 of the Constitution, which relate to freedom of conscience and whether it is adequately protected in legislation on equality and non-discrimination. The Minister has responded to this point several times, and while her answer may not be what Senators wish to hear, she answered the question very well, so much so that Senator Mullen has made another argument on an issue that goes beyond Articles 42 and 44. He has the issue of children, human reproduction, etc., as distinct from freedom of conscience and what happens with a family's right to education. The Minister is correct not to entertain Senator Mullen's latest arguments because they go beyond his amendment.