Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 11 October 2023
191. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth for an update on the referendum to replace the article of the Constitution that refers to women’s “duties in the home” in November. [44374/23]
View answerOn 8 March 2023, the Government announced the intention to hold a referendum on gender equality as recommended by the Citizens’ Assembly and the Special Joint Oireachtas Committee on Gender Equality. An Inter-Departmental Group, involving all Government Departments and chaired by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, was subsequently established to further examine and advance these recommendations. The work of the Group is close to concluding and policy proposals, to include Heads of Bills, will be brought forward for Government to make a decision on the matter as soon as possible. Subject to approval, Bills will be drafted, for consideration by the Oireachtas. It is important to note that, while the IDG are supporting the development of proposals, any decision on policy and wording is for the Government. The Government is mindful of the need for the public to be fully informed on the decisions they are being asked to take and the importance of the role of the Electoral Commission, who will require time to carry out their work.
