Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I join with Deputy Calleary in wishing people a very happy St. Patrick's Day. I know many people will be travelling and I hope they do so safely. As the Deputy acknowledges, ministerial travel abroad is of benefit to our economy and the promotion of Ireland as a good location for tourism and economic activity. This is a good opportunity and many countries would be envious of the way in which we can get access to so many different countries to celebrate this festive occasion and to build beneficial relationships from it.

The legislation in respect of lobbyists is in preparation. As the Deputy is aware, the detail has been outlined in broad terms. I will have to get back to the Deputy on the status of the Charities Bill. There is no promised legislation on voting arrangements for Irish emigrants. The constitutional convention is sitting and has, no doubt, made some comments in respect of that, which will come to Government in due course.

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