Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I assume Deputy Ó Caoláin would not want to deny his fellow Irishmen, Deputy Rabbitte and me the right to express an opinion here. It appears as if we are now in uncharted waters in respect of Judge Curtin. Today the Government decided to give him extra time.

If legislation has to be introduced for judicial regulation, I assume that would require an amendment to Article 35 of the Constitution. If that is the case, obviously it is uncharted waters and will require great sensitivity and thorough discussion and investigation, as would any amendment of the Constitution. It is good governance to bring the people with Government in dealing with problems. It appears from soundings that the Government will require the full co-operation of the House if these waters are to be entered. In that case, would it be good governance, from the Taoiseach's perspective, to withdraw the citizenship referendum, which is being rushed on the people without thorough investigation and analysis? There would then be the possibility of two serious referendums, on a date to be appointed later in the year, following full and thorough discussion at an all-party committee or whatever forum may be appropriate.

Following the debacle of the rushed judgment on electronic voting, serious consideration of an amendment to the Constitution should be fundamental to how the Government deals with its business.

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