John O'Donoghue
Ceist:45 Mr. O'Donoghue asked the Minister for the Environment when the referendum in relation to votes for emigrants will be held; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19403/96]
Written Answers. - Representation of Emigrants.
I hope to publish shortly a consultation paper on Seanad representation for emigrants. This will form the basis for consideration of the issue by the Dáil Committee on Finance and General Affairs, the Seanad and the general public, in advance of submitting a Constitution Amendment Bill to the Oireachtas and putting the issue before the people at a referendum. It remains the intention to hold the referendum this year but, having regard to the necessity to allow sufficient time for consultations to take place. I am not in a position at this stage to give a definite date.