Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

This side of the House will be more than willing to facilitate whatever action the Government deems appropriate to respond to the Supreme Court ruling. We are dancing at the crossroads here and people will pay the price. This is an arcane law that belongs in the last century. I agree that there is no return to it. I am sure all parties will facilitate the introduction of new and urgent legislation. The question of young boys was overlooked in the 1935 legislation. The Taoiseach's response referred to examination of all aspects. I assume the provision regarding young boys will also be considered, as will the section dealing with 15 to 17 year old girls, which is equally open to challenge and might also be struck down. What is the Taoiseach's view? Will all aspects of the legislation be taken into account to deal with today's much more complex society? I consider this an absolute priority to protect young people, and I will support the Government in taking urgent action to deal with a serious lacuna in the law.

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