In relation to the promised legislation to reorganise local government may I ask the Taoiseach if it is still the Government's intention to have this legislation enacted before the end of February? If that is still the intention when does he intend to have the Bill circulated?
Order of Business (resumed).
The Deputy knows that we have established an expert committee to advise us on the possible reform of local government. The report of that body is awaited and when I see it I shall give the matter my full and earnest attention.
May I beg your indulgence to allow me raise a point in relation to Romanian adoptions and the crux that has arisen in our law in that regard? Has the Taoiseach had the opportunity of consulting with his Minister for Justice and can he give an indication to the House as to whether the apparently necessary amendments in our adoption laws will be introduced as a matter of extreme urgency to clear up the problem that has arisen?
Is legislation promised in this area?
I am hoping that the Taoiseach will actually promise it here.
It is not strictly in order, a Cheann Comhairle, but perhaps you will indulge me as it is a very humanitarian matter. Ministers have been giving their attention to this situation very earnestly and we are endeavouring to facilitate the people concerned. Whatever longer term action that needs to be taken will be taken but in the meantime we are facilitating people as best we can.
Thank you.
Can we proceed to item No. 5?
May I ask the Taoiseach when legislation will be enacted to implement the boundaries commission report?
I think we can get on with that very soon now.
Good.
I am not so sure it will be good for the Deputy.
Do you think you should get Deputy Flynn to stand for Westmeath?
I would like to ask either the Minister for Justice or the Minister for the Environment what steps they propose to take to resolve the dispute between Cork Corporation and Mr. Edward O'Connell who is on hunger strike outside Leinster House?
The Deputy will have to raise that at another time. The Chair will try to assist him in the matter.
Thank you.
May I ask the Taoiseach if he intends to bring in amendments to the Presidential Election Act, 1937, to correct some of the inadequacies that showed up after such a long time particularly as some of us might need that Act in some future years?
A Deputy
It would not have made any difference.