Children's referendum could be held before election, says Lenihan
The Minister for Children, Brian Lenihan said a referendum on including children's rights in the constitution can be held before the next general election, despite recent comments to the contrary.
Speaking at the announcement of budget estimates for his department, Minister Lenihan disputed comments by backbenchers and opposition politicians that a referendum is not feasible before the 2007 election.
The Minister said a consultation process has begun which he hoped would be completed in a matter of weeks.
Also, he hoped that consultation with all political parties for the proposed amendments would also be completed shortly.
Public support for the amendments could only be judged after this process, Minister Lenihan acknowledged, but said he was confident the referendum could be passed within the timeframe.
The government also announced a €15mincrease in funding to create more childcare places next year.
This will bring total funding for the sector to €20m and will go towards the target 50,000 additional places.
€381 million is being made available for the Early Childhood Supplement meaning parents will receive €1,000 for children under six next year.
