The Taoiseach is indulging in a great deal of speculation these days. However, does he recall very specific assurances he gave to members of the Pro-Life Amendment Campaign to introduce, as soon as possible, an amendment to the Constitution, or rather legislation which would enable the Constitution to be amended, to prevent the legalisation of abortion? Does he intend to honour the commitment made by him before and since the election?

That matter is under consideration by the Attorney General at present.

I take it that the Taoiseach does not intend that there will be any such legislation in this session.

The Attorney General is considering the matter. We will not take any decision on this until we hear from him.

The Taoiseach gave a specific assurance to these people before and subsequent to the election that there would be no delay whatever in the introduction of such an amendment. Is he now reneging on that assurance?

I am not reneging on any assurance. The question of how such a provision should be formulated is of some complexity and the question of whether it and any other changes in legislation should be undertaken separately or together is something which the Government will have to consider.

The Taoiseach will recall that there was no question in the assurance which he gave to the members of the Pro-Life Amendment Campaign about any other matter. The assurance was specific in regards to this particular change in the Constitution. In view of that, am I to take it that he will not proceed, as he promised these people, with legislation in this session?

We will be proceeding on that matter. As to when and in what terms the amendment will be formulated, that is something the Government will have to decide in the light of what will be submitted to them by the Attorney General.