Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

As Deputy Kenny did at the beginning of his contribution, I offer to the extended family and friends of Adrian and Ciara Dunne and their two little girls our profound sympathies at this terrible time. I offer sympathy to the extended community in Monageer and the people of Wexford generally, who are left to come to terms with this issue. The Government discussed the matter and the Minister of State with responsibility for children, Deputy Brian Lenihan, has already stated the Government position.

With regard to Deputy Kenny's question, I confirm that the procedures as outlined in legislation and the code of practice from the Government secretariat have been given to every Minister. They outline how such Ministers must comply with the Electoral Acts and the judgment of the Supreme Court in 2002, and how all the facilities that would normally be allowable would be utilised in the course of the campaign.

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