Mary Fitzpatrick (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for commencing Jennie's law in the Seanad. I acknowledge Jason and Joe Poole, David French and our colleague Deputy Paul McAuliffe. I particularly acknowledge all of the victims. It is Jennie's law, but it is about all the victims who have survived, who are living in fear and, most importantly, those who have not survived and are not here today. It is important legislation. I thank everybody who works on daily basis with victims, such as the volunteers who take phone calls and respond to victims in the moment of the crisis. That is incredibly challenging for any person to experience. I commend all those people who give up their talents, skills and energies every day to do that.

The legislation is clear and concise. The best Bills are clear and concise because that means they are easy to understand and easy to implement. There will be no confusion. It is going to be clear. If someone is convicted of a domestic violence offence, it is going to be made public. There is huge power in its simplicity. I commend the Minister on that. It is an important practical step.

Regarding the register, when we start from scratch with something, it is not going to be perfect. We all accept that. We had contributions on that. Universally so far, there is support for this legislation. The House is very clear. I acknowledge the concerns being raised about the types of offences that are included. I hear the concerns about the three years and being able to apply to have one's name removed.

Regarding the issue about the consent of the victim being required, it is a very hard thing to get our minds around, but we have to think it through. It is incredibly challenging to get this right, but at least we are starting, and the Minister is starting. It is important that we have this legislation. It is commencing in the Seanad. It gives us all an opportunity to contribute to it and support the work that is being done to support victims. It gives us a unique privilege to enact legislation that will empower people with information and help to reduce risk, prevent harm and save lives, hopefully. Most importantly, it will honour victims. I am happy and honoured to play a small part in supporting this legislation. I thank the Minister for commencing it in the Seanad.