Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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This is dealt with in the Civil Registration Act 2004, which provides for the categories of bodies and organisations that may apply for registration of persons on the register of solemnisers maintained by the Registrar General. Before changing those categories, which is what the Deputy suggests, we would have to consider implications and what it might mean. It is a matter for the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection because it comes under related legislation. My understanding is that currently there are no plans to change the categories of bodies or organisations that may apply to have their members entered on the register of solemnisers. I appreciate that the Deputy has said he wants to bring forward an amendment to change that but it would have to be considered carefully in the context of any implications.

It is anticipated that the increased demand for marriage solemnising arising from the implementation of the same-sex marriage provisions in this Marriage Bill will be offset to a significant extent by the cessation in the registration of civil partnerships, which is provided for in the Bill. As the Deputy mentions, registrars are employed by the HSE which is responsible for their terms and conditions of employment. I take the point made by the Deputy about weekends, which is reasonable. I know there are some discussions ongoing on broader issues relating to the human relations side of registrars. I take the point and I will certainly relay the Deputy's concern to the relevant Ministers. Clearly, there is a demand for weekend ceremonies as well. Under the current terms and conditions of employment of registrars under the HSE, that is not a possibility.