David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)

I am pleased to see the Tánaiste is pre-empting the electorate.

I wish to ask the Tánaiste about a landmark decision in the High Court this week which overturned the Deceased Wife's Sister's Marriage Act 1907. When I raised this matter five and a half years ago with his illustrious predecessor, Deputy O'Donoghue, I was told that the issues would be dealt with under the family law Bill which forms part of the Government's legislative programme, as announced by the Chief Whip on 25 January 2001. In the absence of the Government doing its job, the people concerned had to go to the High Court. What is the delay with the family law Bill and when will we see it published?

See this speech in context