Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

On the same issue, there are now no less than three by-elections pending. In addition, there is a commitment - although it may be one with a small "c" - to hold a referendum on children's rights, as well as the signalled direct election of a mayor of the city of Dublin. In total, therefore, there are five engagements with the electorate pending. Is there any intent on the Taoiseach's part to confirm the by-election arrangements given that it is more then eight months since the vacancy in Donegal South-West arose? When does the Taoiseach intend to allow the electorate in these constituencies to have their say and to facilitate the referendum and the direct election of a mayor of Dublin? When will he advise the House of his intention to set firm dates for all of these? Or would he like to get the pain over in one go by vacating his position and holding a general election-----

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