The Children and Family Relationships Act 2015 was signed into law in 2015. It complemented the referendum for marriage equality and gave rights to same sex parents so that their family formation would be recognised and protected. Some three and a half years on, children of same sex couples are growing up but there is still only one parent allowed on their birth certificate, leaving the other parent without any legal rights-----

Hear, hear.

----over their child. Senator Mullen failed to mention marriage equality in his contribution.

Would the Senator describe that as a populist referendum?

This is the type-----

It was very popular indeed.

I asked would the Senator describe it as a populist referendum.

Senator Mullen was behind the hedge-----

I was making a correction.

Senators please, we are long over time. I have threatened before. This ruaille buaille and interruption is unfair. Senator Norris should know that.

He is the worst offender in the House.

He should allow Senator Warfield to continue. This has been one of the most disorderly sessions since I became Cathaoirleach. There is chatting on both sides of the House.

I am not chatting.

The Senator is making several interruptions and he should please be quiet. That is another minute gone. The Leader will be under pressure to conclude before 4.45 p.m.

This is the type of policy that would make Senator Mullen proud. During the debate on the amendment Bill in this House this year, the Minister for Health promised families that those Parts would be commenced by October. Anxiety among families is growing. It has steadily increased every time the Department has missed its deadlines and there have been six missed in total. In the most recent response to a parliamentary question, the Department of Health is indicating that it may amend Part 9 prior to commencement, yet another likely delay of rights that should have been afforded years ago.

The Leader must make time available next week for one of the Ministers for Health, Justice and Equality or Employment Affairs and Social Protection to come to the Seanad and provide us with an update. Enough is enough. Given the delays and missed deadlines it is time for a bit of honesty and transparency from Government. I am sick of it, others are sick of it and most certainly the affected families are sick of it.