I want to ask the Taoiseach about the Domestic Violence (Amendment) Bill, the pre-legislative scrutiny of which took place more than one year ago in September 2015. In particular, I wish to ask about the ratification of the Council of Europe convention - the Istanbul Convention - on combating violence against women and domestic violence. The convention has been ratified by 22 member states of the Council of Europe, by almost all of the progressive states. Will the Taoiseach indicate when Ireland will ratify the convention and when the legislation will be brought before the House?

It is a priority for this session. I will check to see if the Bill is due for publication this session. It includes, obviously, references to the signing of the Istanbul Convention. I will advise the Deputy of the position.

I thank the Taoiseach.