Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

The amendments reflect the fact that Senator Gavan and the many lawyers and academics working with Together for Safety, as well as the campaigners themselves, have listened to the concerns raised. I imagine that because there has been a collegial spirit in the approach to this legislation and that because that approach has been so cross-party in nature, then if there are further thoughts, this is a clear message that we are happy to listen to and reflect the Government's concerns. What if there are concerns about, for example, the narrowing piece? The phrase “services provided for the provision of contraception or advice in relation to contraception” might be too wide and is being narrowed. If that is too narrow, let us know because we still have Report Stage in which to refine the legislation further. We are all keen to get this exactly right; likewise in the case of the powers of members of the Garda Síochána.

There is a clear engagement here. If there are further questions either on these amendments or the Bill, I urge the Minister to work constructively with us between now and Report Stage to ensure we are all completely happy with the wording that goes through.