It is proposed to take No. 20, the Social Welfare Bill, Report and Final Stages. It is further proposed, notwithstanding anything in Standing Orders, that the Dáil will sit later than 8.30 p.m. and that business will be interrupted not later than 10 p.m.; the Report and Final Stages of No. 20 will be taken today, and proceedings thereon, if not previously concluded, shall be brought to a conclusion at 10 p.m. by one question which will be put by the Chair which shall, in relation to amendments, include only those set down or accepted by the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs. Private Members' Business will be No. 35.
Returns to Writs: Dublin North and Limerick East. - Order of Business.
Is the proposal for dealing with the late sitting agreed? Agreed. Is the proposal for dealing with No. 20 agreed? Agreed.
Could the Taoiseach indicate the stage of preparation of No. 45, the Mental Health Bill? Does he expect it will be introduced this year?
It should be introduced by mid-1998.
For some months I have asked about the Housing (Traveller Accommodation) Bill. On the last occasion I was told it would be published last week. Could I have a definite indication as to when this long promised and much needed legislation will see the light of day?
It is ready.
Is it with the printer?
Yes.
(Dublin West): Ó thaobh reachtú le teacht, an bhfuil chuile rud déanta ag an Rialtas An Blascaod Mór National Historic Park Act, 1989 a leasú, nó an bhfuil an Stát chun achomharc a dhéanamh chun an Chúirt Uachtarach maidir leis an breithiúnas san Ard Chúirt? As regards promised legislation, has the Government decided to amend that Act, to protect the island as a national heritage park, or has it decided to appeal the High Court judgment which found the Act unconstitutional?
The judgment has only recently been delivered, it is under consideration and a decision will be made shortly. The Deputy has raised this matter on a few occasions and as soon as a decision is made I will ask my office to let him know.
We were given a commitment that there would be a debate in the House on the rights of children and the understanding was that it would be during this session. What is the position on that debate?
The Government is anxious to have the debate but I understand it is a matter of fixing time for it. The Whips have arranged a number of debates in this session and the House has sat later than normal on a number of occasions, as it will tonight.