Last night, the Government did not oppose the passage of Sinn Féin legislation on extending the vote in presidential elections to citizens living outside the State - the diaspora and citizens living in the North. Can we get an assurance from the Minister that this was not a tactic simply to sidestep the issue? Will the Minister give her view about the likely taking of that legislation on Committee Stage? As she is aware, the legislation reflects a recommendation made by the Convention on the Constitution, and I am sure the Government is anxious to respect those conclusions.

Will the Minister give a progress report on the adoption (tracing and information) Bill?

We did not oppose Sinn Féin's proposals last night. A number of recommendations from the convention are under regular consideration by the Government. We have indicated which proposals will be put to the people this year, and the people are well aware of the issues that will be put before them. A number of issues, including the one raised by Sinn Féin, will be considered in terms of what might be future issues for referenda.

The adoption (tracing and information) Bill is expected later this year.