Ned O'Sullivan (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

On behalf of the Fianna Fáil group, and especially our leader, Senator Catherine Ardagh, our spokesperson on justice Senator Lorraine Clifford-Lee, and on my own behalf, having followed the debate with great interest although I did not contribute, I welcome the passing of the Bill. I compliment the Minister for steering it through, as I compliment his predecessor, Deputy Frances Fitzgerald, and the Minister of State, Deputy David Stanton on the part they played. I commend my Seanad colleagues from all parties, particularly those from the Independent group, and the women of the House. Notwithstanding the valid point made by Senator Conway-Walsh, the legislation is primarily important from the perspective of women. It is another step in the right direction for bringing about equality for women. We have shamefully treated women in this country as second-class citizens. The big debate of the day on cervical smear tests raises further concerns. We have a long way to go but this is an important step forward and I commend the Bill.