asked the Taoiseach if he is yet in a position to state when a referendum on amendments to the Constitution will take place; and if he will indicate what articles it is proposed to amend.
Ceisteanna-Questions. Oral Answers. - Constitutional Amendments.
2.
I am not yet in a position to give the information sought by the Deputy.
When will the Taoiseach be in a position——
I could not say. As I already indicated to the House, the proposed amendment will naturally have to have regard to the progress of our EEC negotiations. It is early days yet, as far as they are concerned.
May we take it that, if our application is not successful, there will be no question of anything in this connection?
As I indicated to the Leader of the Labour Party some time ago, we should have to consider some amendments to the Constitution irrespective of the outcome of the EEC negotiations.
Will it be within the next six months?
Hardly.
Are we to take it that the intention is not to have the changes in the Constitution, and the referendum, until there is finality about our application for membership of the EEC?
It would be desirable to have as many amendments as possible in the one referendum. That will have to be decided in the light of events.
Does the Taoiseach envisage a lot of amendments?
I do not envisage a lot—some.
How many?
I could not, at this stage, say.
Would it be an accurate description that we shall be voting on a new Constitution? Would that be fair?
I do not think that would be fair.