Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)

The Taoiseach referred to the various matters which are in the programme for Government which would require referendums at some stage. They include the recommendations on extending the franchise for presidential elections to Irish people living abroad; recommendations for changes to the electoral system; a new electoral system for Seanad Éireann; a new basis for European elections; a recommendation on the possibility of extending the franchise for local elections to those aged 16 and over; and proposals to hold a constitutional referendum to amend Article 41.2 of the Constitution, broadening the reference to the role of women in the home to one which recognises the role of the parent in the home. Will any of those recommendations see their way into a referendum in the lifetime of this Government? When will the referendum on the rights and protection of children be held?

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