Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Deputy Jim O'Keeffe was briefed this morning by the Minister of State, Deputy Brian Lenihan, on the proposal for the constitutional referendum on the rights of children. In an earlier reply from the Taoiseach, I understood the Cabinet had agreed yesterday on the proposed wording. Deputy Jim O'Keeffe, however, this morning was informed by the Minister of State, Deputy Lenihan, that the wording for the seven propositions was approved but that the Attorney General is working on the wording to be inserted in the Constitution. Is that the case? Does the Attorney General have to return to the Cabinet with a recommendation of the wording to be inserted in the Constitution? Did I pick up the Taoiseach incorrectly this morning that when the Cabinet had given approval, that it only pertained to the seven propositions? Was the wording for the referendum approved yesterday?

The All-Party Committee on the Constitution recommended that legislation should be published to give effect to the wording. I understand from the Minister of State's briefing that it will now be a statement of legislative intent. Will the Taoiseach clarify these matters?

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