Malcolm Noonan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I again thank Senators Higgins, Ruane, Flynn and Black for these amendments, which specify an coimisiún's approach to conducting its public education and information function under section 66 of the Bill.

I am strongly of the view that it would be desirable that an coimisiún would carry out its work on increasing awareness of and participation in the State's electoral and democratic processes, with a strong emphasis on groups that are under-represented. Being mindful of an coimisiún's independence, however, I intend to give an coimisiún autonomy to decide how it goes about carrying out this role, and I do not propose to amend the Bill so as to specify how it conducts this function. I have been consistent in saying this.

Having regard to amendment No. 30, I am of the view that the pre-registration of 16- and 17-year-olds provides an excellent opportunity for an coimisiún to take an active role in encouraging participation in our democratic processes in schools and among students. I agree with the point Senator Higgins made about CSPE. From speaking to schools in recent years, there has been fantastic engagement by dedicated teachers and students in schools who are actively engaging in the political system like never before. That is very much to be welcomed.

In respect of amendment No. 31, section 42 of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Act 2014 requires that public bodies, in the performance of their functions, have regard to the need to eliminate discrimination, promote equality of opportunity and treatment of their staff and recipients of their services, and protect the human rights of their members, staff and recipients of their services. Therefore, the substance of this amendment is already legislated for. In these circumstances, I am satisfied that the amendments are not required. I do not propose to accept them.