David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I ask the Minister of State to consider introducing such an amendment.Without this what one does is leave the children hanging. There is no provision for them at all. It is worse than useless. It is a typical Irish situation where one grants a barring order but there is no provision for the welfare of the children whatever and they are then just left hanging. The amendment wanted to ensure that, "the court consider the safety and well-being of any children and take measures." Therefore, the court would then have to ensure the welfare of any such children.

The amendment continued, "Provide for the availability of experts to the courts", which is the provision that creates the expense. The amendment further continued, "to assess the risk the perpetrator poses to children and the impact on them of direct and/or indirect abuse". Again, the provision is very important.

The last part of the amendment states, "Establish a national system of Child Contact Centres to facilitate post-separation contact for children of victims of domestic abuse that ensures and protects their physical and psychological well-being". I think that is what we all would like to see. I am very sorry that the amendment has been ruled out of order. It shows the regrettable impact.

I do understand that the Committee on Procedure and Privileges is considering this matter.