Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)

First, on the Ombudsman's report, the issue is that the Department concerned has rejected the Ombudsman's findings and recommendations. As she pointed out in her report, this is only the second time in 25 years that this has happened, which is the reason she has laid a report before the Houses of the Oireachtas. It is important that the House should address this matter in whatever form is agreed.

I refer to an earlier matter that was raised by Deputy Kenny, namely, the date for the return of the Dáil after Christmas. Perhaps I missed it while the Taoiseach replied to Deputy Kenny, but I did not catch the date on which he indicated the House would return after the Christmas break. Perhaps he might clarify this for Members.

Third, I wish to raise the Defamation Act, which was passed by the Houses last July and which awaits commencement by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform. I asked the Taoiseach about this issue approximately one month ago and he told me that commencement was imminent. When will the Act be commenced?

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