Ms Tracy O'Keeffe:

Yes. The preparatory work is ongoing. The Commission undertook an extensive public consultation process last year. It is expected it will publish the proposed initiative towards the end of the year. The third quarter was mentioned, so it would be some time in the autumn. Because it would be expected to be a measure in the family law area, it is one on which unanimity will be required. There will be quite a road to go in terms of the negotiations between member states on it.

In broad terms, what is envisaged is a proposal that where parenthood has been established in one member state, it would be recognised in the others, with the free movement of citizens in mind, and the reality that family life can now have an international dimension with people moving from state to state.