Niall Ó Donnghaile (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I dtús báire, cuirim fáilte ar ais roimh an Aire. The Minister is welcome back. It is good to see her. Last week, at the earlier session of this Second Stage debate, my colleague, Senator Gavan, covered for me. I was in London on committee business. He outlined comprehensively where Sinn Féin stands on this Bill. Other colleagues have reflected on the importance of getting this legislation right and ensuring that it is as robust and effective as it needs to be in striking the correct balance between the right to freedom of speech and punishing those who engage in hate, violence and intolerance. I do not need or intend to rehearse what Senator Gavan said last week, but I will re-enforce the message that we will work, as we did in the Lower House, with the Minister and her officials to ensure we get the legislation right. As colleagues on both sides of the House have reflected this afternoon, there are concerns and issues that need to be tightened up and strengthened and I believe we can do that. Otherwise, this will not be a good Bill.

Senator Gallagher raised an interesting point regarding language. I, too, have been contacted about language, probably primarily the Irish language, but also other languages. I am keen to know whether the Minister has thought about it and whether she considering it going forward. What is her view on it at this stage?