Niall Collins (Limerick, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Tánaiste for his reply. I agree with him that it is a very sensitive issue and it behoves all of us, as parliamentarians and public representatives, to engage in an open and honest debate. The people are demanding that this debate take place as soon as possible. The Tánaiste has outlined some of the timeline in regard to the reply that has to be given to the European Court by the end of this month or early in December. However, we have to engage with the political process. Let us be honest. There are varying views within all political parties and all sections of society.

It is incumbent on the Government to publish the report and have a full and open debate. Will we have a debate in this House on the State's response to the judgment of the European Court of Human Rights prior to the Government reporting in December? Our obligation and commitment to report back in December is the only timeline the Tánaiste has indicated. What will happen after that? What steps does the Government intend to take in order to arrive at consensus that will bring as many people as possible along the journey? Will the Tánaiste please outline the situation and provide more detail?

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