Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

There are two issues, one of which concerns Northern Ireland. As I stated last week on the Order of Business, that appears more likely to go to an election than a referendum. It is still in abeyance and will be until the legislation is finalised in two weeks' time.

On the second issue, the Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children, Deputy Brian Lenihan, will be involved in discussions with the parties regarding the rights of children under the Constitution.

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