Martin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the representatives of the deaf community to the Chamber, many of whom I have got to know in recent years as a result of the very intensive and appropriate campaign they, in particular Dr. John Bosco Conama, have run. I also welcome the students from Bishopstown. I received their correspondence. It is great when young people go to the trouble of writing to Oireachtas Members to try to influence legislation. I also acknowledge Councillor Mary Shields who, with others, has campaigned during the years. I am convinced that it will happen.

I join Senator Lorraine Clifford-Lee in acknowledging the contribution of Senator Mark Daly in dealing with this issue. He tabled the Bill twice during the lifetime of the previous Government and it is regrettable it did not at least reach Committee Stage because if that had happened we would be significantly down the road now. I am delighted to be able to say that on this occasion that it is third time lucky, the Government will not oppose the passing of this Bill on Second Stage. I am possibly stealing the thunder of the Minister of State, but it is widely known that it will not be opposed.