Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I understand that the commitment given in respect of the civil unions Bill was that the heads would be circulated to Government Members for the purpose of advancing proposals and discussing how to proceed politically. We are, therefore, in the midst of a deliberative process and we will not be in a position to bring forward the Bill until that process is complete. The Deputy will be aware that the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform has honoured the commitment he gave publicly in respect of this matter. We have not reached the stage where the legislation has been drafted. However, the heads have been circulated for consideration by Government. We will proceed from there as quickly as is possible and feasible.

The nursing home Bill was raised by Deputies on a number of occasions in recent weeks. I understand, from the replies given by the Taoiseach, that there are legal issues — not constitutional problems — with the Bill which need to be resolved. The Attorney General is working on this issue as a matter of priority. With regard to my position — as I prepare to take up office when the Taoiseach resigns on 7 May — it is my intention, in the near future, to have a detailed discussion with the Attorney General on the legislative programme in order that I might obtain a clear indication as to what is happening across the various Departments. I will then be better able to indicate what is the current position. In fairness to the Minister for Health and Children, I do not wish to make a piecemeal statement — not that I possess the relevant knowledge at present — regarding the specific issue. She will be obliged to come forward with the Bill in due course. There is an undertaking that this will happen during the current session.

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