Eileen Flynn (Independent) | Oireachtas source

It should not matter if people are cohabiting or if they are married but the fact is that it does matter. If it did not matter, John would not have had to take a case against the State. It matters financially. When I was ten years of age my mother passed away. It was her anniversary this time last week, the same great, wonderful person - I speak about her very often. If my father had not been entitled to the widow's pension, I do not know where I and the rest of my family would be today. It was by a stroke of luck - and I know how difficult it is to grow up in a one-parent family with little or no supports.

Along with my Civil Engagement Group colleagues, I fully support Senator Wall's Bill. For me it is a no-brainer. As was said earlier, Ireland is changing. Couples are changing. We should acknowledge that by treating couples equally. We are not doing that within our society. There are 150,000 people who are cohabiting with partners in society. I appreciate the Minister saying we will come back to it in a year. However, in my opinion and other people's opinions, that is kicking the can down the road. We have seen many a time in both Houses where we kick the cans down the road. That is exactly what the Minister's Department is doing this evening. Oireachtas Members have brought the legislation, people have worked really hard and have listened to cohabiting couples and young people growing up in these families. Last week we tabled a motion in the House on poverty. I am thinking of people who are from the likes of Ballyfermot or Crumlin and are left with a one-parent family with no supports just because of their marriage status. I urge the Minister to think. I am sorry; the Minister is whispering with Senator Ardagh. It is actually a bit rude. I will just have a seat.