Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

If one is to be honest, we understand the difficulty and trauma experienced by many families, which is harrowing and disturbing. It is uncomfortable to meet these people and hear their stories and experience in a modern-day Ireland and world. The Minister of State outlined the legitimate concerns. He is not seeking to do nothing. He is seeking to take a step-by-step approach to bring about a resolution. The Government did not table tonight's amendment lightly. I commend Senator Norris for bringing his Bill before the House and hope there will be regularisation and resolution. However, the Government is seeking to defer this Stage. It is not seeking to oppose it for the sake of opposition. I will not rehearse the arguments made by the Minister of State but he has highlighted unintended consequences of the legislation as presented to the House, if passed, which could present further difficulties. It would not bode well to do that.

I think we all agree on the end result although we might disagree on the journey of the train. I hope Senator Norris, rather than dividing the House, will accept the amendment. The unintended consequences of the Bill, as outlined by the Minister of State, need to be examined. To be fair to him, the Minister of State's bona fides in regard to this area cannot be questioned by any Member of the House. He is an honest and honourable man. This is the first time I have met him since his appointment as Minister of State and I commend him and congratulate him on his appointment.