Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

On the second issue raised by Deputy Rabbitte, we did have the debate two weeks ago and on Monday week last the Government published its proposals. I asked last week if the Opposition would respond directly in writing to the Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children, Deputy Brian Lenihan, who is trying to arrange a meeting. The Government's view is that both issues are necessary and essential and we should do both together. I would like to put them to the people in the short term but if that is not possible I will put them to the people in the long term. Having checked with the NGOs, the idea of two separate referendums finds no favour with anybody.

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