Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Following on what Deputy Rabbitte said, in the short reflection that we had on the matter this morning we had to consider what was the intent of the Minister of State and the Government. Did the Cabinet decide and agree on a form of wording this morning? If so, will the Taoiseach inform the House of it?

As the Taoiseach rightly pointed out, questions are always asked about these matters. In the event that the Opposition parties are able to reflect on whatever form of wording is decided by the Cabinet and general agreement is reached on the matter, does the Cabinet intend that the legislation dealing with the age of consent would return to the House at a subsequent stage? Is that the intention from a legislative perspective in the event that the referendum proceeds, taking into account the other constraints outlined?

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