Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I do not disagree with any of the Deputy's remarks. I wish to assure him of both my efforts and my action in this regard. Since the scoping group submitted its report to me in April a significant amount of work has been undertaken by officials in my Department on issues around the survey methodology, ethical considerations, the feasibility around periodic data collection over time, and data protection issues. Several issues have been resolved and a small number of technical issues are still to be progressed, including legal issues that require consultation with the Office of the Attorney General. Once these are resolved, which I expect will happen very shortly, I will bring proposals to Cabinet. I will be happy to make a further statement to the House then.

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