John O'Mahony (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I support in principle the thrust of the Bill, which will help to bring about equality and inclusion. From all the stories we have heard here today, the present situation has led to inequality and exclusion. The 5,000 people may be a minority, but they are an important minority, and I am glad the Bill is being supported collaboratively around the House. I compliment all the stakeholders who campaigned for it and Senator Daly, who did a lot of work on it.

The objective of the Bill is to allow a large group of people to lead a more equal life in the future. I understand the Minister has promised legislation to ensure that all public bodies provide Irish Sign Language users with free interpretation when availing of their statutory entitlements. I note the report of the joint Oireachtas committee, of which many of my colleagues were members. The work of committees, because they are cross-party, allows for the collaboration we are speaking about here.

Highlighting this, by all those involved in the campaign in the House and the various advocates, organisations and school students, has been of enormous benefit because many of us did not know of the disadvantages.As a former teacher, I knew that funding is in place for home tuition services for hearing-impaired preschool and schoolgoing children to provide training for them, their siblings and their parents. However, from what we have heard today and the discussion on the Bill, there is now an important step to be taken, and I compliment and add my voice of support for it.