Margaret Murphy O'Mahony (Fianna Fail)

I move amendment No. 1:

To delete all words after “That” and substitute the following: - “Seanad Éireann resolves that the Equality (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2025 be read a second time on this day 12 months, to allow for further consideration of issues arising in the Bill.”

I welcome the opportunity to speak on this important issue today. Equality is one of the fundamental principles upon which our society is built. It is not just a legal concept. It is a societal aspiration, one that demands vigilance, commitment and action. As legislators, we have a duty to ensure fairness and opportunity for all, particularly for those who face barriers due to their socioeconomic status. Fianna Fáil welcomes this debate and supports the request from the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Deputy Foley, who is with us today, to introduce an amendment providing that this Bill be returned for debate in 12 months. This is not a delay; it is an opportunity to ensure the introduction of disadvantaged socioeconomic status as a new ground in the Employment Equality Act 1998 and the Equal Status Act 2000 is done thoroughly, responsibly and effectively.

The proposal to expand our equality laws is a significant step forward. Such a change must be approached with clarity and precision, however. The additional time for review will allow us to define "socioeconomic disadvantage" properly, thereby ensuring its inclusion as a protected ground is legally robust and practically implementable. We must consider the impact on workers, employers, service providers and individuals alike. Legal protection is only meaningful when it is workable and ensures businesses, institutions and society at large understand their obligations and responsibilities. This time will allow us to assess how best to embed this new ground without ambiguity to ensure effective enforcement and real impact for those most impacted by socioeconomic inequalities.

Ireland has long been a leader in enshrining equality protections in law. The Employment Equality Acts and Equal Status Acts, first introduced by Fianna Fáil in 1998 and 2000 respectively, have shaped our legal and social landscape, prohibiting discrimination in employment and in the provision of goods and services. These laws protect individuals based on nine grounds, sending a clear signal that discrimination on these bases will not be tolerated. While enforcement can sometimes be difficult, the existence of this legislation is powerful. It sets the tone for how employers, institutions and service providers interact with individuals right across all sectors. Expanding this framework to prohibit discrimination on the ground of socioeconomic disadvantage would be a natural progression in strengthening protections for those most vulnerable. We must, however, do so thoughtfully. We must ensure the legislative language is clear, the enforcement mechanisms strong and the protections genuinely impactful.

Some may ask why legal protections matter when tackling discrimination. The reality is that discrimination, whether intentional or unconscious, creates significant barriers for individuals in accessing opportunities and services. We have seen the positive impact of existing equality legislation, which has helped to reduce discrimination and change perceptions over the years. When we send a strong legislative message it forces reflection and promotes change, not just in individual attitudes but in the structures and systems that shape our society. Making socioeconomic disadvantage a recognised ground for discrimination will not eliminate inequality overnight. It will, however, create a foundation upon which further protections can be built, thereby ensuring equal access to employment and essential services regardless of people's backgrounds.

Advancing equality is not the task of one Department alone; it is a whole-of-government issue. We must address inequality from multiple angles, through education, social policy, employment initiatives and legal protections. Progress has been made across several fronts but challenges persist. We still see disparities in access to education, employment opportunities and public services. We still hear stories of individuals who face barriers due to their economic background, whether in hiring practices, treatment by institutions or access to essential resources. Fianna Fáil believes social mobility and inclusion must be central to our policies. The Government remains committed to driving progress and ensuring that Ireland continues to grow as a welcoming, fair and inclusive society.

Further to this commitment, the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Deputy Foley, will bring forward her proposals within the equality and family leaves (miscellaneous provisions) Bill 2025. These proposals are designed to strengthen protections for individuals facing socioeconomic disadvantage, reinforcing our national commitment to fairness and equality. The timed amendment allowing the Bill to return for a debate in 12 months is critical in ensuring the Government's proposals are fully developed, thoroughly examined and properly finalised. We must take the time to get this right and ensure the legislation introduced is effective, clear and enforceable.

This is more than just a legislative discussion. It is an opportunity to build a fairer, stronger and more inclusive Ireland. The Government is committed to ensuring this process is well researched and comprehensive, bringing forward strong legal protections that will help to address socioeconomic disadvantage in a meaningful and lasting way. Fianna Fáil supports this measured approach, allowing time for thorough reflection, refinement and careful implementation. Let us work together to ensure Ireland continues to lead on equality and inclusion, thereby creating a society where opportunity is available to all regardless of our background.