I join the Tánaiste and Deputy Martin in expressing sympathy to the families, co-workers and friends of those who lost their lives and to those who were injured in the appalling tragedy in Texas.

I wish to inquire about a number of items of legislation. When will the electoral (amendment) Bill, which deals with a number of technical aspects of elections - including the review of the European Parliament constituencies - be published? When will the local government Bill, which will provide for a range of reforms across the local government area - including configuration, mergers, etc. - be published? There is great concern with regard to this legislation, particularly as it relates to the future of municipal authorities. When will these Bills be presented to the Houses for debate? Will the Tánaiste also indicate when it is expected that the health (amendment) Bill and the health information Bill will be published?

The local government Bill and the electoral (amendment) Bill are due to be published this session. In the context of the latter Bill and the number of European Parliament seats that will be on offer, the relevant matters have been concluded by the European Parliament but the process relating to them remains ongoing. The health (amendment) Bill is also due to be published this session. The health information Bill will be published early next year.