Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)

He referred to further constitutional change. As the Minister with responsibility not only for public expenditure, but also reform, I have established a political reform division in my Department and intend bringing to the Houses an array of legislation and constitutional proposals, including whistleblowers legislation, a Bill on the registration of lobbyists and an amendment to the Freedom of Information Act to restore the position that existed prior to the enactment of recent changes. I met the Committee on Procedure and Privileges last night to discuss another constitutional referendum to deal with communications by citizens with Members of the Oireachtas regarding allegations of wrongdoing. I also intend, with my Government colleagues, to establish a forum on the Constitution next year. Other constitutional amendments which will be brought before the Houses include a referendum on children's rights, which we have committed to holding early next year, and there will be other referendums.