Opposition doubt referendum can take place before election

THE publication of the Government’s wording on the constitutional amendment on children was broadly welcomed by the opposition and children’s’ organisations yesterday but all doubted whether the referendum can be held before this summer’s general election.

Labour Senator Derek McDowell said there was much in the amendment that he supported but also said that he was disappointed with other areas.

“The package as a whole is complex. I have to say that I do not believe that, even with whole-hearted co-operation from the parties in the Oireachtas, the proposals can be debated within the timeframe proposed,” he said.