Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Leas-Chathaoirleach for his understanding. Sinn Féin will support the proposed amendments and as a proud trade unionist I am keen to support them. Student unions in Ireland have a proud and vibrant history steeped in radicalism. They have been at the forefront of progressive matters across the island during the past century, whether that is publicly-funded education, accommodation, marriage equality, access to contraception or repealing the eighth amendment. I am concerned that the definition in its current format disregards that.

One consistent feature in the history of the student movement in Ireland and elsewhere is the battle with some college authorities for legitimacy and autonomy. Their depreciation is nothing new and it is done with intention with a view to favouring college authorities' agendas over that of students. The current wording leaves student unions rights being disregarded and delegitimised. The Minister of State does not want that and it seems to be an unintended consequence of the Bill. I assert it is a regular occurrence in not only the student movements but, as I know from experience, trade union movements. These underhand tactics are used by management.Students need certainty from this Bill. Much of the teaching staff receive certainty through this Bill, and the Minister of State is to be commended for that, but students now need the same. Therefore, I urge the Minister of State to support this amendment.

There is very good wording in amendments Nos. 3 and 4. I cannot understand why the Minister of State would possibly object to this simple change of wording. It does nothing to threaten the Bill. I ask the Minister of State to remember we are here to support this Bill and not to oppose it. There seems to be broad concern across the Chamber. We are not here to make life difficult; we want to support this Bill. It will be a real step forward. We are behind the Bill but may not be able to support it on a later Stage if this simple change is not recognised.

Looking at the wording in either amendment No. 3 or amendment No. 4, I cannot possibly see what there is to object to. Could the Minister of State reassure the students by accepting it? Let us have everyone on the same page celebrating this Bill rather than leaving the students on the outside. The amendments are key amendments for the students' unions. I ask the Minister of State to consider what Senator Higgins and others have said.

I call on Senator Robbie Gallagher, whom I respect, to speak on this because I genuinely believe the students' unions need support at this time. There is nothing in this amendment that anybody across the Chamber could object to. If so, he or she should tell me. Let us try to build consensus. Let us show the Seanad working in unison on this Bill.