Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It will be important to engage in further discussion on how best to give effect to the principles underlying the Bill and in this regard I was particularly struck by the contribution of Senator Ó Donnghaile. There are issues we need to consider before deciding that this is the final article. I refer in particular to issues regarding the sentencing provisions which, in my view, require amendment before they could be placed on the Statute Book. I will seek to work with the Senators who proposed the Bill and other Members of the Seanad in that regard. I should also add that, as the Bill creates a criminal offence, the issue of a money message will need to be addressed in due course.

I thank Senators for introducing a debate on this important topic. I assure them that should the Bill proceed to the next Stage, I would be happy to engage with its proposers. I look forward to hearing submissions from Senators who participated in the debate and perhaps some of those who are not present this afternoon.