Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)

The referendum on children's rights is a programme for Government priority. The Government recently endorsed the holding of the referendum on a stand-alone basis during the course of 2012.

Since taking office, both officials of the Department of Children and Youth Affairs and I have had a considerable number of meetings and communications with the Attorney General and her officials to progress this commitment. A draft wording is being prepared by the Office of the Attorney General in co-operation with the Department of Children and Youth Affairs. We are jointly focused on ensuring the proposed referendum reflects the deliberations and conclusions of the joint committee and the commitment in the programme for Government. The Government is satisfied that the nature of the referendum is such that it will be a stand-alone matter, to allow for a full debate on the issue and in order that the people clearly understand the proposition being put in the proposed amendment.

The precise timing of the referendum during 2012 is the subject of further consideration by the Government. However, as I have previously stated, it is its intention that the referendum will be held this year. It is my intention, in conjunction with a proposal for a constitutional amendment, to also make available the proposed legislative amendments to the adoption provisions which would be introduced based on the successful outcome of the referendum.

I have sought to consult key interests as the work on the proposed amendment is finalised. This has included the party spokesmen on children. I will continue to consult as a detailed wording emerges. It is my hope, to the greatest extent possible, that a broad-based consensus will be forthcoming to support the incorporation of children's rights within the Constitution. It is important that there be clear and reliable information available on the current position of children as reflected in the Constitution and the law and the public's understanding of children's rights. My Department is examining how such information can be captured. I look forward to working with Members of the Oireachtas in explaining these issues as part of an important campaign on how as a country we provide for the recognition and protection of children's rights.

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