Darragh O'Brien (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Yes, this is a justice for all issue. Perhaps the Minister will give a commitment today that she will consult on this matter with the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection and the Minister for Finance. I will then give a commitment to Senator Norris that if he withdraws the amendment to this Bill and resubmits an amendment to the social welfare and pensions Bill to address this unfairness, it will have my support. This matter needs to be rectified and money should not be the reason it is not addressed.

The Bill before us is important legislation about marriage equality. Perhaps, as I said, the Minister will give a commitment that Senator Norris's proposal will be looked at in the context of the social welfare and pensions Bill, following which Senator Norris can decide whether he wishes to proceed with the amendment today.