Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Last week the Taoiseach issued an apology to Louise O’Keeffe. I compliment him on doing so. In that context he spoke about the Children First legislation. In March 2012 the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Deputy Fitzgerald, confirmed that her Department was finalising the Children First legislation. On 27 September 2012 the Minister confirmed that the legislation was on the A list. On 23 June 2013 the Taoiseach confirmed on the Order of Business that due to pressure on the legislative programme the Bill would be taken in the next session. The next session was what is now the previous session - autumn. Autumn has come and gone and we are still awaiting the publication of the legislation. Could the Taoiseach confirm to the House today when we will see the publication of this much-needed legislation?

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