Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Is the Taoiseach happy that the HSE has the capacity to respond effectively and in an accountable fashion here? Obviously prioritisation of the publication of HSE reports leaves much to be desired. Has the Government firmed up on its intention to hold a referendum on children's rights, given all the information now in the public domain? Will it take place some time in 2010?

Following Michael Somers's appearance before an Oireachtas committee last summer when he made comments about Government policy, it now appears that legislation published, including the National Asset Management Agency Act and the Inland Fisheries Board Bill, contain a specific section stating:

In carrying out duties under this section, the chief executive shall not question or express an opinion on the merits of any policy of the Government or a Minister of the Government or on the merits of the objectives of such policy.

Is this to be a standard feature in all legislation where this might apply? Are we in the position where a chief executive or a person in an area of responsibility is being told in law that he or she cannot make any kind of comment or express an opinion on the merits or otherwise of a Government policy or a Minister or on the merits of the objectives of such policy?

See this speech in context