Averil Power (Independent) | Oireachtas source

This has been a useful debate. It is useful to have that discussion about the broader context in which we operate here and I agree with much of what the Minister of State stated in that respect.

I share the concerns that have been outlined about the distinction in the Bill between public and private organisations which is an unjustified one, the lack of protection on the religious ground for teachers and other staff, and concerns about issues such as privacy.

We are debating amendment No. 14, which is the proposition to delete the section instead of the approach proposed by the Government. It is obvious, if nothing else, from the balance of power in the House, that the Government amendment will pass. I have a number of amendments down to the Government amendment to deal with the issues raised by Senator Norris and others and it would be helpful if we could move on to these amendments so that we can debate my proposals on those individual issues and tease them through.