Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)

As the Deputy will be aware, this was a priority for the Government and we have not put off a decision on holding the referendum. We have made it clear that it will be held this year and, given its importance and the range of issues to be addressed, that it will be a stand alone referendum. That is an indication of our commitment and such a timely response has not been seen from a Government previously.

I assure the Deputy that I will liaise directly with him and with Deputy McConalogue on an ongoing basis between now and September. I am also happy to brief them fully on the adoption legislation. These are complex issues. There is all-party agreement on them and I want to continue that agreement. I will certainly facilitate ongoing consultation and discussion on the referendum and the accompanying adoption legislation.

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