Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

We want the membership of the convention to be representative of society in general and to include people of all ages and genders, regardless of where they reside. These issues have been discussed from time to time in the past. As the Deputy is aware, there is not due to be another presidential election until 2018 and this will give us the time and space to get matters right. In the first instance, I want to establish as inclusive and as comprehensive a convention as possible. This will then be given its remit and terms of reference and directed to carry out its work. There is no reason the convention could not take into account or consider reports, recommendations or proposals from a wide variety of individuals and interests. If the Oireachtas wants to consider changes to the Constitution which would reflect and evolving Ireland, then it is in everyone's interests that all relevant proposals be examined.

I do not perceive this to be a narrow, extremely confined issue. The constitutional convention will have quite a broad remit that will cover a range of subjects. In that context, I have no objection to groups or organisations, either at home or abroad, putting forward proposals for consideration. This matter is relevant to all Irish citizens, not just those who live in this State but also those who reside elsewhere. In saying this I am not giving a signal in respect of the outcome of the convention. However, I do not see why all proposals or suggestions put forward should not be discussed.

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