Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

In regard to the reform agenda, we should not have to wait too long for the outcome of the IGC. I hope we will be able to recommend it to the people as a good agreement for the country and the future of Europe. I hope we will get it passed.

Regarding the Deputy's remarks on another referendum, the issue is not the same. We made a number of changes in regard to the referendum on the second Nice treaty. In that case we also succeeded in agreeing a protocol that dealt with some of the issues the Deputy raised to bring clarity to our position of neutrality. That dealt with what was probably the biggest concern, with the misunderstanding of the referendum on the first Nice treaty, to the satisfaction of more than two thirds of the people and allowed the enlargement of Europe to proceed.

In regard to the rights of the child, the answer to the Deputy's question is yes. We are anxious to proceed on the basis of achieving consensus. We must bring this matter to a conclusion and are committed to doing so. We are anxious to have discussions because it is always best, in the case of a referendum, to get agreement and broad political support from the Houses of the Oireachtas on an issue to be put to the people.

I am not certain whether internment is a legislative or constitutional matter. I suggest that the Deputy progress it directly with the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform. The issue has not been raised for a long time, nor has the power of internment been used. I am not sure what its status is or what legal basis there is for examining it. I am sure a question to the Minister would result in the issue being dealt with.

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