Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I already answered that question earlier. It is being prepared and proceeded with. As people are aware, it is a complex area, but regardless of its complexity I accept it is important legislation and it is being pursued as quickly as possible.

I refer to the earlier question on the Oireachtas committees. There are things to be done and matters to be investigated by people other than those on Oireachtas committees. Oireachtas committees are not a panacea for every problem. However, there is a point to be made about how we can make them more effective. I have indicated that regardless of any other powers they require, it would be beneficial if everyone approached committees and membership of committees in the interests of avoiding what can often descend into party political bickering or defending positions one way or the other and getting away from the merits of the case. That takes away from the effectiveness of committees and their standing in the public eye, at home and internally. I acknowledge a lot of good work is done by committees and I am in favour of effective accountability, whereby we are seen to do our job and rise above some of the party political positions that, often, we must take for other reasons related to other matters.

I refer to the other recommendations in respect of children's issues generally. They are part of the brief of and the reason for having brought forward the Minister of State with responsibility for children. The introduction of the Office for the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs has been an effective means of bringing focus to these issues, a joined-up approach and cross-departmental responsibility where children are affected. It has been a means of giving greater profile to these important issues and areas.

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