Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

In respect of promised legislation, which is the second issue raised by Deputy Kenny, the programme for Government commits the Government to legislating for civil partnership. We will fulfil that commitment within the current constitutional context and developing case law. It is imperative to stress that the general scheme of the civil partnership Bill has been drafted within a constitutional framework that gives express protection to the institution of marriage. The Government's legislative programme provides for the publication early next year of a civil partnership Bill. The Attorney General has provided advice throughout the drafting process to ensure that the constitutional position on marriage is fully respected and in no way undermined. Civil partnership is a separate and distinct scheme which does not conflict with the special position of marriage.

Regarding the Deputy's first point, a review is being undertaken of all the regulatory arrangements in this country. We have asked for this in light of the plethora of regulators that exists at present. I have spoken this morning to the Minister for Communications, Energy and National Resources regarding the application on electricity and gas prices. As the Deputy will be aware, a process is in place in this regard but I have asked the Minister to meet the chairmen of both companies and report back to me.

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