Colette Kelleher (Independent) | Oireachtas source

The amendments are intended to improve the provisions and protections provided in the Bill. I thank the Minister of State and also the former Tánaiste who was present for the first debate on the Bill for her work on it. It is important to recognise that violence happens in relationships where people do not live together. I warmly welcome and will be supporting Government amendment No. 7. I think that is a very important change. Senator Higgins has sponsored amendments Nos. 8 and 16. She had hoped to be here but she is away on official business. She intended to withdraw amendments Nos. 8 and 16 and she hopes to be here for Report Stage to make a point on the matter.