I thank the Taoiseach for his recent correspondence and update on the matter of parental alienation which the Ceann Comhairle has kindly allowed me to raise in the House. The update is welcome and is indicative of a programme for reform. However, it does not do anything to help those mothers, children and, in some cases, fathers who are prevented by order from meeting or having any discourse, except by telephone, for the foreseeable future. Could there be an intervention that could deal with that part of the situation in the meantime?

I thank Deputy Durkan for raising this important issue again. It is close to his heart and he has received correspondence from me on it in the last couple of days. I would have to speak to the Minister for Justice and the Attorney General on this but if it relates to a court order, then I do not think there is a mechanism by which Government can intervene. However, I will seek advice on that.