David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)

I refer to two proposed Bills, the first of which is the mental capacity Bill. There are rumours it will be shelved. I would like the Taoiseach to confirm that is not true and the Bill will proceed as soon as possible. Will he expedite the legislation because there are significant pressures in that area and it is badly needed? The legislation is also required to ratify the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, an area in which the Taoiseach has an interest.

There is a long-standing promise to introduce the social welfare lone parent and other low income families reform Bill and I have also heard this may not proceed. Given many low income families are under pressure, perhaps the Taoiseach will indicate whether this legislation is a priority and when it might be published.

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