Sean Barrett (Independent)

I welcome the Minister to the House. I do not claim any expertise in legal matters but I do have some questions to pose. Could the legal advice that the referendum is necessary be placed in the Oireachtas Library, as constitutional lawyers may wish to consult it at some future stage?

In his speech the Minister said he was not aware of any judge making a voluntary contribution in respect of the pay cut. That is surprising. I thought there was a response. Apparently they were willing to accept the pension deduction but nothing - subject to confirmation by the Minister - as regards the pay cut. I note the cost of the referendum at €750,000. I ask the Minister to clarify if this is the cost per referendum. How much will be saved by holding the presidential election and the referenda on the same day? I thank the Minister.