Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I say one thing to Senator Mullen, who is going to interrupt me. He based the entirety of his criticism of the proposal on the matter of children. For the benefit of the House, I note, as I did on Second Stage, that children will not be rendered more vulnerable if the minimum living apart period is removed from the Constitution because the courts will still be required to consider whether proper provision has been, is being or will be made for spouses and children. That is in accordance with the Constitution and it is not being changed. That is why I seek the consensus which is desirable in the circumstances. I welcome Senator Mullen's statement that he will not campaign against the proposal.