Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)

The latter part of the question extends the scope somewhat and it might be better to table questions to the line Minster in respect of migrant workers. The Government will not delay its consideration of the possible ratification of the optional protocol. After it has examined the issue, the Government will take a decision on possible signature.

In Ireland the practice is to pass any necessary legislation prior to ratification rather than afterwards. This makes sense because of our desire to ensure the treaty can come into full effect on ratification. It does not make a great deal of sense to ratify it and then have to pass the legislation. The object of seeking the consideration of Departments is to determine what is required from the point of view of individual Departments with respect to any legislation or regulations that must be made. This is where the process is now. The idea is to put in place the legislation and regulation and, having done that, to proceed then with ratification. It is something which we do not intend to delay.

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