I would like to join Senator McCarthy, and perhaps others, in wishing Ann Lane all the very best. We have known Ann around the House working with the Labour Party over the years. Her good humour does not surprise me whatsoever. I wish her every success. I hope she has enjoyed her expeditions overseas.

The Leas-Chathaoirleach and I, along with other colleagues, were at a very powerful and emotional briefing in the audiovisual room, partly facilitated by our former colleague, Mary Seery Kearney. We all know the great work the former Senator did in this House to get the surrogacy legislation over the line in 2024. It was a labour of love for her for many years, certainly for the couple of years pre-2024. It is quite concerning to learn that most of that groundbreaking legislation has not been implemented or activated yet, particularly section 12 of the Act, which would make a huge difference to the thousands of lives impacted.

We pass legislation in this House in good faith. We debate and scrutinise it. It is scrutinised by the other House and by Oireachtas committees. That particular legislation was subject to significant Oireachtas scrutiny at the time. I would like a debate with the Minister on why so many sections of that very important legislation have not been commenced yet.

We need a debate on surrogacy in general. There is now going to be amended legislation, which will be extremely important. We have a situation in this country where young people are not being treated equally. If there is a bereavement in a family, the question suddenly arises as to who will look after the child or be his or her guardian. This is not normal legislation; it is crucial legislation. It needs to be commenced and the new Bill needs to be fast-tracked through this House. I am looking for a debate at the earliest convenience on this important issue.