Ivana Bacik (Independent)

I would be grateful if there were a specific reply because it is undemocratic to leave us in this state of uncertainty. It is also very bad for the economy. International investors are slow to invest in Irish business at this point without knowing when this Government is likely to go to the people or when the next government is likely to take office. We need certainty.

Will the Leader also clarify a matter I raised last week, namely, why the Bill to prohibit female genital mutilation is not contained for publication in the legislative programme? I understand it is imminently ready for publication and should be published this week. As the Leader is aware, that date is some months after the Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Harney, had promised publication.

I also ask the Leader for a debate in the House and for the Minister for Health and Children to come to the House to say what she intends to do about the decision of the European Court of Human Rights in the case of A, B and C in December. It is essential that legislation be passed to give effect to that decision. I want to hear from the Minister about this. We need a debate with her as to what she intends to do as thousands of women travel abroad for medical terminations they should be able to obtain in this country.