Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)

If so, this implies the legislation will be taken before Christmas. In the light of the fact that the seven organisations representing older people have come together to raise serious concerns about the scheme's provisions and that there has been no consultation, will the Taoiseach consider deferring debate on the legislation to allow meaningful consultation to take place with all the groups concerned?

Regarding the Government's paper published some time ago on proposals to support lone parents, we were promised the publication of legislation this session to provide for the changes in welfare payments for lone parents. Is it the intention to go ahead with the legislation or when can we expect to see legislation?

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