Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The commencement of section 6 will provide an opportunity for all fathers' names to be recorded on the register of births. While this anomaly affects a small number of people, I do not for a second underestimate how important it is, not just to fathers but also to mothers and indeed children. It is the Government's view that where possible, all children should have the rights to know the details of both their parents. The commencement of section 6 will also complete the commencement of all sections of the Civil Registration (Amendment) Act 2014 in relation to the registration and re-registration of births. Together with the forthcoming civil registration (electronic registration) Bill, it will provide for a modern and efficient civil registration service. I have no doubt but that this will happen speedily. Time is of the essence. There was, as the Senator rightly pointed out, an anomaly discovered in the original section that must be corrected. The training that is required must be delivered to suitable registrars. I understand and appreciate that time is of the essence. The Minister, Deputy Humphreys, confirmed to me that she will make this an absolute priority to bring to the Houses.