Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

All the children are protected under this legislation. The Bill passed yesterday does not discriminate against those with special needs or otherwise. They are all protected. This House has served a great purpose and it proves that the Taoiseach's 11 nominees should be maintained in any reform of this House because it gives the Taoiseach of the day the opportunity to appoint people of expert ability. As a result of this, the amendment was tabled and the Minister, Deputy Reilly, accepted it and brought it to the Cabinet and the Attorney General. It was an historic day yesterday and I hope that when the Bill is passed there will be some effort made to commemorate it. Everyone in this House can share in this wonderful occasion. Senator van Turnhout initiated it but we all supported her wholeheartedly. I thank the Minister who really showed his strength and ability in bringing it through the House.