Mary Upton
Question:138 Dr. Upton asked the Taoiseach if the Government will organise a reprint of Bunreacht na hÉireann in view of the fact that the Constitution is not available for people to purchase. [18644/03]
Written Answers. - Government Publications Office.
Pat Rabbitte
Question:139 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Taoiseach if his attention has been drawn to the fact that no up-to-date versions of the Constitution, incorporating all amendments made to date, are available through the Government Publications Office; his views on whether this situation is satisfactory; the steps he is taking to ensure that printed copies of the Constitution are available to all citizens who require them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18658/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 138 and 139 together.
The most up-to-date version of the Constitution has always been available, in Irish and in English, on my Department's website.
Hard copies of the popular text are currently being reprinted and will be available from 2 July 2003.
My office was alerted last February that copies were in short supply in the Government Publications sales office. At that time, the process of reprinting was already under way and its completion was prioritised. Final texts were sent to the printers three weeks ago.
In the meantime, my Department has assisted persons seeking copies by making available copies from its supply and by providing printed copies where required of the website publication.