Charlie McConalogue (Donegal North East, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Minister for her response. While I agree with her that many important issues must be addressed in respect of the legislation, it is not acceptable to publish the Bill at the same time as the referendum Bill. The former must be published in advance of the latter.

I note the Minister's comment that in many areas delays arose because work on the relevant issues had not started before she took office. After the Government came to power, the Minister and Taoiseach gave a commitment to hold the referendum at the same time as the presidential election. This was followed by a further commitment to hold it within one year. The referendum is now to be held by the end of this year. The Minister became aware of the position as regards the Bill when she took office. Since then, progress has been slower than it should have been. It is crucial the Bill is published before the summer to ensure we secure all-party agreement and thrash out important issues in advance of the referendum campaign commencing.

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