Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

It is very difficult conceptually to envisage a convention that will be truly representative of the different strands of society. It might be useful, therefore, to produce a template or a number of templates or scenarios of what is envisaged in order that people could buy into this, as there is a danger that the great and good of Irish society, particularly those who fancy themselves more than others in terms of their contribution to Irish life, will predominate in such a convention. We must ensure, therefore, that this proposal is considered carefully.

With regard to children's rights, the Oireachtas joint committee engaged in consultations for some two and a half years. The last Government then considered the issue, took advice from the Attorney General and produced proposals which were published by the outgoing Minister of State with responsibility for children, Mr. Barry Andrews. While the Government may have issues with the last Government's final template, it is now decision time. We must be practical and decisions must be taken. The constitutional amendment on children's rights should have priority and I do not believe such a referendum should be held on the same day as the Presidential election. I strongly believe that if the amendment to the Constitution is a substantive one, it merits treatment on its own. The election of a President is a very serious issue in its own right which merits treatment on its own and consideration by the electorate. My position is that we should separate the two.

With regard to the abolition of the Seanad, I am struck by the Taoiseach's statement that it is not as simple as it sounds. The only ones who made it sound simple were the people in the Fine Gael Party for the past two years. I am struck by the Taoiseach's comment that it is not as simple as it sounds and that there must be considered deliberation in this regard.

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