Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

As it seems likely that there will be a presidential election later this year, does the Government have proposals to bring forward a constitutional change and does the Taoiseach believe such change is required to extend the franchise to citizens north of the Border, in the six north-eastern counties of our country? Given that the President, were she domiciled in her own home, would not be able to vote for herself — she was not able to do so, what proposals does the Government have in this regard? If it is not a constitutional matter, does the Taoiseach believe it should be legislated for in advance of the presidential election later this year? There is recognition that that is very important.

I have repeatedly raised the issue of ground rents since 1997 and my colleague, Deputy Morgan, has raised it since 2002. In his previous responses, the Taoiseach stated that there are possible constitutional difficulties with a Bill to abolish ground rents, yet it remains an intent in the Government's programme of legislation for each term. What advice has the Cabinet received from the Attorney General on the possible constitutional difficulties regarding a ground rents Bill? Will the Taoiseach publish the Attorney General's advice so that we can all be privy to his concerns?

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