Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I propose to answer Questions Nos. 8 to 11, inclusive, together.

Work is proceeding on the preparation of proposals for a referendum on the abolition of the Seanad. The proposal to abolish the Seanad was signalled by the Government parties prior to the general election and the Dáil and Seanad will have an opportunity to debate fully the necessary legislation when it is published.

As to its timing, I have already made clear that the Government's current focus is on the referendum on children's rights on 10 November and that the Seanad referendum will not be held during Ireland's EU Presidency next year. With regard to constitutional reforms other than those to be considered by the constitutional convention, as Members will be aware, the referendum on children's rights will take place on Saturday, 10 November 2012. Work is proceeding in the relevant Departments on other programme for Government commitments for constitutional reform.

Members will recall that in July, the Minister for Justice and Equality announced that the Government had approved in principle proposals for a number of major reforms to our court structures and that consideration would be given to other changes to Article 26 and Article 34 of the Constitution. The work to be undertaken would also consider the constitutional change required to enable the State to participate in any arrangement providing for the establishment of a European Patent Court. A decision on when to hold the necessary referendum will be made at a later date.

See this speech in context