Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Leas-Chathaoirleach and Senators for their work in ensuring this debate would take place this evening. I am mindful of the fact that they have a very busy schedule. I acknowledge the significant amount of work Senator Ruane has done to progress this important legislation. I formally thank the Senator for her work, but I also thank the Independent Senators, Senators Black, Kelleher, Dolan, Higgins and Grace O'Sullivan, for supporting its presentation to the House. It is an important issue, not only for those with convictions but also for society as a whole.

I agree with the general objective of the Bill, as do my Government colleagues, as we strive to assist those with minor convictions who have moved away from offending and want to get on with their lives. The amendments proposed by Senator Ruane go further than what was envisaged by her or her colleagues, but they take into account the recommendations of the Joint Committee on Justice and Equality in October this year. I acknowledge the importance of that report in the context of this debate. I also acknowledge the meetings that took place between my officials and Senator Ruane earlier this month. I acknowledge what Senator Ruane said about the constructive nature of that engagement. While I am generally supportive of the direction of the amendments, as are my Government colleagues, it has not been entirely possible within the time available to fully consider the implications of the committee's recommendations at an appropriate level of detail, in conjunction with the proposed amendments the Seanad has passed this afternoon. However, I am happy to accept them in the knowledge that and against the background of further consultation being required to ensure unintended consequences will be avoided, for example, serious offences being captured unintentionally by the Bill, as constituted.

I acknowledge that there is great merit in the legislation and I am happy to work with Senator Ruane to progress the Bill further in order that it will be balanced and fair in its approach, both from the perspective of rehabilitation of the offender and given the crucial need to at all times protect the public. I am committed to working further with Senator Ruane as this research and consultation progresses. I acknowledge the welcome the Senator has given to this. We will continue to engage, with a view to identifying amendments which might be needed on Report Stage because my objective is in line with those of the Independent Senators. Their presence in numbers underlines the support for Senator Ruane and the importance they place on this reforming legislation. At the end of Committee Stage our objective is the same, that is, to ensure the fairest possible outcome can be achieved for all citizens. I thank Senator Ruane and the other Senators involved.