Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)

With the Acting Chair's indulgence, I will make a few remarks. I thank the Senators for their consideration both at Second Stage and at the Stages this evening, including Senators Rabbitte, O'Donovan, McCormack and Ruane, whose contributions were really instructive.

As we all know, this legislation will bring a very important change for hundreds of people who are directly affected by the death of a loved one. These are people we know in our own families and people we meet every day. They are our friends and colleagues. It will bring comfort to many thousands of families and couples, who may someday find themselves in that situation, which they may not have envisaged they would be.

This has come about because of the determination of Johnny O'Meara. I pay tribute to him, his three children and, in particular, his partner and their mum Michelle, without whom we would not be here and without whose courage we would not be here. I also pay tribute to Deputy Alan Kelly who joined with them and walked with them on that journey. There are times as public representatives we can feel frustrated at what we may feel is powerlessness around things, but Alan has shown us that we all have power if we use it.

These provisions are being introduced as a consequence of that Supreme Court judgment. The focus being placed on the position of children was a very important, but not definitive, element for it. While there are genuine concerns around financial support for the children of separated people in the aftermath of the death of one parent, there are means to secure support. My Department will provide financial assistance for those with a need.

I thank the Senators and Deputies for their contribution to the debate. I will keep a very close eye on the implementation of this legislation. I will engage with both Senators and Deputies on the specific legislation and its impact. I will also engage with Senator Ruane and her office on the child poverty aspects she raised in her contribution. I thank the Acting Chair, the Seanad Office and, in particular, the officials in my Department who shepherded this legislation from the Supreme Court to this point. It is a matter of great pride that we will now send it to the President for signing.