The role of a strong family unit in preventing anti-social behaviour was stressed by Finian McGrath (Independent, Dublin North Central).
He said anti-social behaviour was an issue TDs were frequently asked to deal with.
"This is not just a policing issue but a parents' issue. Where there are strong, healthy, vibrant, stable families, there is less anti-social behaviour." He knew this, he said, from direct experience.
"I have worked in the poorest parts of north inner city Dublin for 20 years, and have seen people live in areas riddled with drugs and heroin, yet their children were able to attend school in their uniforms, to be clean, against the odds, and to have their homework done. That happened because they had a strong, stable family in the middle of all this negativity."
Speaking during the debate on the Parental Leave (Amendment) Bill, Mr McGrath suggested that research should be undertaken on such good examples of families assisting children.
"We must examine how some parents can do it against the odds, and we must ensure those people are rewarded. There are many skilled young people in disadvantaged areas of the State who never get into trouble and make a fantastic contribution to the society."
Joe Costello (Labour, Dublin Central) suggested the introduction of "at least a modicum" of paid parental leave.
He said that paid parental leave would be a very valuable support for those on low incomes. "Such people cannot afford to take unpaid parental leave, and that is the problem with this Bill. It is a bit like the Ritz, in that it is open to everybody, but if one is not able to afford it, then one will not get past the door. If one gets past the door, one will not get to sample its delights."
He asked how a lone parent could take unpaid parental leave. "If one takes unpaid parental leave, one has no income."
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (SF, Cavan-Monaghan) criticised the absence of any reference in the legislation to paternity leave.
"Public sector employees receive a minimal three days' paternity leave, but no one has a statutory entitlement to it, so people must rely on the good will of their employees. That is not acceptable."
