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Government appoints Chairperson to Citizens' Assembly

The Cabinet, at its meeting today, approved the appointment of Supreme Court Judge, Ms Justice Mary Laffoy as Chairperson of the Citizens’ Assembly.

The ‘Programme for a Partnership Government’ commits the Government to ‘the establishment of a Citizens’ Assembly, within six months and without participation by politicians, with a mandate to look at a limited number of key issues over an extended time period.’

A Resolution approving the establishment of the Assembly was recently passed by both Houses of the Oireachtas. The following topics will be for consideration by the Assembly and the Assembly will make a Report to the Houses of the Oireachtas on each item:

  • (i) the Eighth Amendment of the Constitution;
  • (ii) how we best respond to the challenges and opportunities of an ageing population;
  • (iii) fixed term parliaments;
  • (iv) the manner in which referendums are held; and
  • (v) how the State can make Ireland a leader in tackling climate change

The Assembly will also be asked to consider such other matters as may be referred to it.

Read the full press release here.