Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Will the Taoiseach consider providing an opportunity some time next week for a discussion on the €750 billion fund agreed last week by the Ministers of the eurozone countries, and Ireland's proposal to add to this by dealing with competitiveness, investment and growth, so that we can present a clear picture of what we are doing to other countries?

Last Thursday, I raised certain questions with the Tánaiste. Either she was being an obstinate pupil or she was in the Department of skills because she refused to answer any question asked of her. These questions were clear. First, are we to have a referendum on children's rights this year? The all-party Oireachtas committee agreed after much deliberation on a wording for the referendum, which has been received by the Minister of State with responsibility for children.

Second, I asked the Tánaiste when the legislation providing for a directly elected mayor of Dublin would be produced, and if it is proposed to hold that election in isolation or on the same day as the children's referendum. I also asked about the people in Donegal South-West, Dublin South and Waterford who are disenfranchised. The Government is hanging on by a thread and knows it cannot win any of those three seats unless there is another miracle in Fatima or Knock. It is unfair that these people have been disenfranchised to such an extent and for such a long time. I ask the Taoiseach to confirm whether the Government has any intention of holding the three by-elections that are now due. If it does intend to hold a referendum on children's rights at the same time as the election for Lord Mayor in Dublin, is it proposed to have these by-elections on the same day? In this way the people who are now disenfranchised can at least have a say on the Government's mismanagement of the country.

I note one of the Green Party Ministers is in the House. His leader and counterpart has an interest in the water services Bill. When is that Bill expected? It is stated that it is not possible to indicate at this stage when it can be expected. However, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government seems to have a different view. Will the Taoiseach enlighten us on that?

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