Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

For the information of the Minister, the committee considered the referral of the Thirty-eighth Amendment to the Constitution Bill by the Business Committee on 5 September, two weeks before the resumption of Oireachtas business. We had a full attendance of Deputies and Senators who recognised the absolute inappropriateness of the reference in Article 41.2 of the Constitution to women in the home. There was unanimity as to its sexist and discriminatory construct and that it has no place in our Constitution, not only now but arguably at any time. This is very important.

I was a little alarmed by the Minister's opening remarks and his reference to commentators, which we all are individually and collectively. However, he clarified that he was not reflecting any such view of the committee's decision, which was taken with a mind only to properly inform ourselves to make a constructive contribution to the consideration of the final preparation of the required legislation. I welcome the Minister's response in that regard and that is certainly that is the way I am interpreting it.

Regarding timeframe, we will address this matter again this day week, when a further five presenters will come before the committee. There are three to follow the Minister today. The report that we will present will take up to three weeks, in terms of its preparation in draft form. It will then be considered by the members. In the event of any amendments or whatever, we will to have to give a week or two for final consideration before adoption. That is the most likely timeframe, and I can assure the Minister that the committee will continue to expedite the process, mindful of the recognition of the importance of the issue and moving the process forward.