Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Red Cross (Amendment) Bill is scheduled to be published next year. As the Deputy will be aware, the purpose of the Children First Bill is to implement the programme for Government commitment relating to Children First. On 24 April 2012, the Government gave its approval in respect of publication and referral of the draft general scheme and heads of the Bill for consideration by the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health and Children. The committee engaged in a wide-ranging process of consultation with organisations and individuals that work with children and provided an extensive report on 5 July 2012. By its nature, the legislation is both complex and difficult and significant policy, operational and legal issues have emerged on foot of the views expressed by the Oireachtas committee and the Department's further consideration of the draft general scheme and heads of the Bill. It is expected that the revised version of the latter will be sent to the Attorney General's office for its consideration shortly, with a view to the Minister receiving Government approval to commence drafting the legislation as soon as possible.

I had thought it might be possible to publish the Children First Bill this session. However, the range of views expressed by the Oireachtas committee as part of its comprehensive analysis of the heads of the Bill was far more extensive than people might have imagined. As already stated, the draft general scheme and heads of the Bill are being referred to the Attorney General's office for consideration and approval for drafting and publication of the legislation should then follow. I apologise for the fact that we are behind in terms of the timeline but, as indicated, this is as a result of the very broad range of important views expressed by the members of the Oireachtas committee. I will keep Deputy Martin updated on the position when the Attorney General gives her approval for the Government to proceed with drafting.

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