Tom Clonan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Cathaoirleach for his flexibility in allowing me to speak again.

I think this is a great moment. It brings us into line with the rest of the European Union and other states. We spend so much of our lives fighting. Apart from the fear, trauma and upset, so much time is spent fighting. In my case, I am dealing with my child's disease. In other people's cases, there is a huge spectrum of challenges. On top of that we have to fight the system, the Department of Social Protection, the Revenue Commissioners, the Department of Education, the HSE, the list goes on. We are all exhausted and this empowers us and allows us to live life and hope for the future. Go raibh míle maith agaibh.