Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Before I make any public announcement about the constitutional convention I will of course consult with Opposition leaders. I might make this point about "people's day, people's choice" in respect of the recent referendum. I think we need a serious discussion here as politicians and public representatives about this situation for the future. For instance, the Government is committed to holding two referenda, on children's rights and the abolition of the Seanad, which have been agreed by all parties. We do need to consider, however, the way in which that can best be structured and whether one can actually hold two referenda on the one day. If so, and if they are quite complex, what is the capacity to inform citizens so they can make their judgment in the best possible way? If one cannot generate sufficient interest in them - if one does not have over 30% of the vote - they fall dead. The constitutional convention will have to examine quite a number of areas on a whole range of issues. It will make its deliberations before it comes back to the Oireachtas. I intend that we should have an opportunity for Members to give their views on this, as to whether in fact one can hold more than one referendum in future, on the same day, on what may be complex issues. If they are held individually, one runs the risk that there is a cost involved and it may not be possible to generate enough interest to have more than 30% of the vote in the first place. Before I pronounce on this matter, I intend to talk to the Opposition leaders.

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