I wish to ask the Tánaiste about the children first Bill, especially in respect of the failure of the Garda Inspectorate and its record keeping of sexual offences against children. It was unclear to me whether Deputy Ó Cuív was referring to the legislation for the referendum or this legislation. I realise the Government is committed to introducing this legislation and the Minister, Deputy Frances Fitzgerald, has made it plain. But an urgency should be attached to this and rather than telling us that it will be taken this session, will the Tánaiste be more specific and urgent about it?

The Government approved the preparation of the heads of the children first Bill in July. The Minister intends to bring a position paper on the children first policy to Government shortly, following which the heads are expected to go to the committee in the next Dáil term. The Bill is due to be published this session and work is continuing on the preparation of the Bill.