Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Minister of State is very welcome back to the House. I begin by congratulating and commending Senator Flynn on bringing forward this very sensible legislation. It is her first Private Member's Bill and I compliment her on it. It is commonsense legislation and I am delighted the Government is not opposing it. I understand it has been flagged that there may be legal challenges going forward, as there are with many pieces of legislation. The Minister of State has outlined there will be consultation with the Attorney General but the principle proposed by the Senator makes perfect sense. It is only right that the term "child pornography" be excised from the Statute Book.

Senator Ruane spoke about how important language is. That is very true. It is very important and we must always be conscious of it in this House. As Senator Ruane outlined, it is not so much about those present here for a discussion such as this but the audience that will be listening in. That is vitally important not just with this legislation but with legislation generally.

I am not going to delay the debate. I am delighted to support the Bill. I am very heartened to support Senator Flynn in her efforts to bring forward this very sensible legislation. I have no doubt that other Members will do likewise. I am delighted the Government is not opposing the Bill. It is good, commonsense legislation and I look forward to its speedy passage through both Houses.