Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Has the Government decided when the referendum will be held? Is it likely to be in May-June, before the summer, or will it be held over until the autumn? Is it likely that the people will have only one chance at this? The eyes of 500 million will watch this country next year. We are the only country that needs to hold a referendum. This is a chance for Ireland, on behalf of everybody else, to ratify the treaty that will allow Europe to work with a structure that will enable 27 countries, instead of 15, to do business.

Has the Taoiseach examined the timeline for a children's rights referendum if it is to be held on the same day? The all-party committee has much work to do on this. I have said we will contribute constructively. A wording must be agreed, a Bill must be published and debated in the Dáil and Seanad, and the requisite period must be allowed before the referendum on children's rights can be held. Has the Taoiseach examined the timeline and is he happy that it will be possible to hold two referenda on one day, one on children's rights, if the committee can agree and the House can pass it, and one on the EU reform treaty?

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