Yesterday was an historic day in this House. An amendment was moved by Senator Jillian van Turnhout and accepted by the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Deputy James Reilly, which provided for the abolition of the common law defence of reasonable chastisement and, for that purpose, to amend the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997 and to provide for related matters. The Children First Bill was passed unanimously in this House.

Is the Senator hoping to discuss yesterday's business again today?

No, but I want to put a question to the Acting Leader. The Bill will now move to the Dáil where we hope it will be expedited. We can give no greater honour to the 1916 Proclamation than that of yesterday when we passed the Bill cherishing all the children of the nation equally. We certainly cherished all the children of the nation equally.

Apart from children in direct provision facilities.

Senator Terry Leyden to continue, without interruption.

All children are protected under this legislation. The Bill passed yesterday does not discriminate against those with special needs or otherwise. They are all protected. This House has served a great purpose and it proves that the Taoiseach's 11 nominees should be maintained in any reform of this House because it gives the Taoiseach of the day the opportunity to appoint people of expert ability. As a result of this, the amendment was tabled and the Minister, Deputy James Reilly, accepted it and brought it to the Cabinet and the Attorney General. Yesterday was an historic day and I hope that when the Bill is passed, there will be some effort made to commemorate it. Everyone in this House can share in this wonderful occasion. Senator Jillian van Turnhout initiated it, but we all supported her wholeheartedly. I thank the Minister who really showed his strength and ability in bringing it through the House.