Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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Question 300: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if in regard to the report of the Working Group on Domestic Partnership (details supplied) he has initiated research into who exactly makes up the cohort of non-conjugal relationships and what their needs are, as recommended in the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6906/08]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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Question 301: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if in regard to the recommendation made in the report of the Working Group on Domestic Partnership (details supplied) there is a need for protection for some people in these arrangements but that these might be better served through regular review of legislation and reform where necessary; if he has initiated any review of legislation in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6907/08]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 300 and 301 together.

My Department is currently developing the detailed proposals for a Civil Partnership Bill, taking account of the options provided by the Colley Working Group and recommendations contained in the Law Reform Commission's Report on Rights and Duties of Cohabitants. The scope of the Bill extends to same-sex couples and both same-sex and opposite-sex cohabitants.

In so far as my Department's responsibilities are concerned, certain of the issues arising for other cohabitants which are referred to in the Colley Report relate to private law and matters which are at the discretion of the individuals concerned, such as property rights, testation, and decision making in certain circumstances. I think it is generally more appropriate that such persons regulate their own affairs in these matters. However, there may be aspects where a legislative response would be appropriate, and I intend to keep such matters, where they fall within my remit, under review.