Emer Higgins (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)

The amendments in group 2 relate to the removal of the 1685 order from Schedule 1, instruments to be retained. These amendments follow on from Committee Stage in the Seanad and very constructive engagement with Senator Boyhan, the Genealogical Society of Ireland and the Office of the Chief Herald in the National Library. Amendment No. 2 removes the 1685 order from Schedule 1, instruments to be retained, and amendment No. 7 inserts the order into Schedule 2, instruments to be revoked. These are minor technical amendments that do not fundamentally change the Bill but it is really important to say that they are an example of what happens when we listen to what is said in this Chamber, when views are articulated in a very clear and persuasive manner and when collaboration happens outside this Chamber. I thank my officials and officials from the Law Reform Commission for their engagement on this issue. I hope this is to the satisfaction of Senators here.