Is there any indication of a timeframe for the introduction of a Bill to provide for a referendum on the abolition of the Seanad?

No. A great deal of work has been done on this issue, for example, in terms of preparation for the legislation. There are practical considerations here. A referendum on the rights of children and on child protection is being held in November. I wish to make it clear to the Deputy that it will be put to the people. The question of when that will be done depends on certain practicalities. Ireland will have the Presidency of the European Union from January to June of next year. The Government has given an absolute commitment in this regard. The Deputy can take it that the people will have an opportunity to vote on the question of the abolition of the Seanad.