Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I have asked the Tánaiste before about outstanding matters arising from the Constitutional Convention. She has indicated, as has the Taoiseach, that the Government does not intend to bring forward legislation, much less hold a referendum, on proposals agreed to by the Constitutional Convention on the position of women in the Constitution and the reference to women within the home. The same applies to the proposal on the extension of the franchise in presidential elections to Irish citizens resident outside the State, including the North. Will the Tánaiste confirm if, in fact, that is the position of the Government? Will it bring forward legislation or hold a referendum on these matters? I would appreciate absolute clarity on tis point.

I understand the Cabinet sub-committee on the centenary of the Easter Rising met for the first time on Tuesday evening. It is, of course, chaired by the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Deputy Heather Humphreys. Will the Tánaiste explain why the first meeting of the sub-committee is only occurring now, a little over one year from the centenary in Easter 2016? It seems to be remarkably tardy. I know several people, not least because of the ongoing controversy about the Moore Street monument and the proposed development, are concerned that the Government appears to have been so slow in convening a meeting of the sub-committee.

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