65 Mr. Doherty asked the Minister for Health and Children when the Green Paper on abortion will be published. [16175/99]

It is not possible to give a definitive date when the Green Paper on abortion will be ready for publication. Work is proceeding on the preparation of the Green Paper but the stage has not yet been reached where a draft is ready for consideration by the Cabinet committee established to oversee its preparation. When drafting has been completed, I intend to convene another meeting of the Cabinet committee, which will then commence consideration of the draft.

Publication of the Green Paper must await a final decision of the Government in due course. I acknowledge that the process is taking longer than expected but I would point out that any dates given by me are at all times indicative, pending final approval by Government. It is the Government's intention to refer the Green Paper, when completed, to the All-Party Committee on the Constitution for consideration.