Terry Brennan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Ar dtús, cuirim fáilte roimh an Aire. This is my first task as the social protection spokesperson for the Government in the Seanad. I am replacing Senator Naughton. I acknowledge the part she has played, together with my distinguished colleagues in the Seanad. There are too many of them to mention individually. I have attended meetings on the matter but this is my first time to speak as spokesperson.

I wish to acknowledge the progress made in drafting this important legislation. I congratulate the Minister of State, Deputy Kevin Humphreys, whom I have heard speak on this subject in the Seanad on several occasions, on his work on bringing the legislation to this Stage. The Bill represents an important improvement to the lives of those with gender identity issues and it is a clear statement about the Government's commitment to addressing the needs of those affected. I did not have a Second Stage statement prepared-----