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Dáil
‹ Order of Business

1926 census release legislation

Summary

Pearse Doherty asks whether legislation will release the 1926 census before the centenary; the Taoiseach will review progress on the 100-year rule, costs and publication timing.

I wish to raise the matter of two pieces of legislation. I have asked about the first of these on many occasions. It relates to the release of the 1926 census. The Minister of State, Deputy Deenihan, has promised this and it was promised in the programme for Government. Indeed, on 9 March 2012 it was said that the legislation had been approved by Cabinet. The legislation has not come before this House to allow for the records to be released before the 100 year rule. Will the census be released? Is the legislation forthcoming and will any of the 1926 census data be released for the centenary of the Easter Rising, as was the original plan, or is it off the table? It is likely it is far too late now to release it and that the Government has missed the boat on this issue, but in regard to the promised legislation can the Taoiseach tell us whether it will come before the House before the Government's term in office is up?

My second question relates to the promised legislation on bankruptcy. As the Taoiseach is aware, this was kicked to touch to the Joint Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality. It reported to the Minister in the first week of July, four months ago, but the report remains on the Minister's desk. Will legislation come before the House this or next term to reduce the bankruptcy term from three years to one year, as has been unanimously agreed by the joint committee?

Comment on this
Enda Kenny The Taoiseach Fine Gael

This concerns the option of a reduction of the bankruptcy term from three years to one year in particular cases. I will have to come back to the Deputy in regard to when the legislation is likely to be published.

The question on the 1926 census is twofold, concerning the 100 year rule and the cost. I am not sure what state of preparation that is at, but I will advise the Deputy shortly.

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