asked the Taoiseach whether the Government have had an opportunity to consider the view expressed by the Chief Justice and other members of the Supreme Court in a case (details supplied) to the effect that legislative regulation of the respective rights and duties of the State, owners of land and finders of objects of historical or archaeological value, with regard to ownership or reward for the finding of such objects would appear to be desirable; and whether legislation on this matter may be expected in the near future.

In consultation with the National Museum, the Office of Public Works and the Attorney General's Office, my Department are drawing up the heads of the legislation required to deal with this complex matter. I hope to present to Government in the near future the detailed proposals for this legislation.

Will the Taoiseach's Department be in charge of this Bill when it surfaces?

Yes.

Will the Taoiseach's Department invite representations from whatever bodies in the country might have useful views on this point to communicate with him?

I think that would be helpful.

Will the Taoiseach also consider in addition to possible legislation the possible need for a constitutional amendment, despite the favourable result in the Derrynaflan case, to put this beyond all doubt?

It would be better if we could frame legislation which would fit in with the present constitutional requirements.