Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is my intention that we would have a referendum in May 2018. As I unfortunately do not have a majority in this House, and as the guillotine no longer exists, I cannot promise that it will happen. We do not control the House. It will be in the House's hands. Obviously a number of things need to be done. A referendum Bill must be passed; legislation, or at least heads of legislation, must be published; a referendum commission needs to be established; and time is required for a campaign. A date in May is achievable, but only with the co-operation of the House. I ask for that co-operation.

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