Lorraine Clifford Lee (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister of State. Fianna Fáil is happy to support this Bill. I commend Senator Colm Burke and others on all the work they have done in respect of this legislation, including Members of the previous Seanad. This Bill has been a long time coming. As Senator Colm Burke outlined, it was drafted on foot of a Law Reform Commission report which suggested the streamlining of the law relating to this area. We are happy to support it.

As Senator Marie-Louise O'Donnell outlined, the disappearance of a loved one leaves people in a limbo emotionally, psychologically and, often, financially. It is great that there will finally be a clear framework in place because the current model is cumbersome, costly and involves applications to the High Court. I am glad to see that future applications will be to the Circuit Court, which will limit the financial exposure of families who are already suffering and going through a very difficult time. I commend Senator Colm Burke for bringing this issue to the House's attention.

The two categories of persons that this legislation will cover is also significant because every missing person's case is different. It is good that we have made the requisite distinction in that regard. I look forward to the passage of this Bill through the House and I may table some amendments to it at a later stage.