We are moving on to Questions on Policy or Legislation.

When he gets to his feet, the Minister might clarify the precise whereabouts of the Taoiseach. Tonight, our justice spokesperson, Deputy Carthy, brings forward a very important piece of legislation - a Bill that would allow courts to impose a restraining order on someone convicted of a sexual assault, preventing them from approaching the victim when released from prison. Not alone would this increase protection for victims but also play a really important role in women regaining the sense of safety so violently robbed from them, and provide them with the security they need to rebuild their lives. This legislation has been called for by victims and it has been shaped by them and their traumatic experiences and insights.

It is supported by front-line organisations, including the Rape Crisis Centre. I ask that the Government not block this vital legislation and that it support its passage to Committee Stage and urgently into law because victims cannot wait any longer.

To deal with the important matter that the Deputy raised, I know Sinn Féin has legislation in that regard. I outlined earlier on some of the measures that the Government was taking on this important and critical issue. I will certainly discuss Sinn Féin's Private Members' Bill with the Minister, Deputy O'Callaghan, and will revert directly to the Deputy in relation to how the Government proposes to approach that. In fairness, everyone in this House is trying to work on this important issue in a unified way. It is critical that we do that. I assure the Deputy that we are minded of the voices of victims and survivors.

Moving on to the Deputy's first point, I thank her again for her concern as to the Taoiseach's travel. I will make an important point. The Taoiseach is representing the Government. I said that earlier on. It is not unusual for a Head of Government to attend international fora.

The Minister's time is up. I call Deputy Bacik.

He is travelling back as we speak.

Is he still away now, though?

I will let him know the Deputy was asking for him.