Can I take it that any Independent deputy, who has stated privately, or in conversation, that he or she has been assured by the Taoiseach, or people acting authoritatively on his behalf, that an (abortion) referendum will be held in the spring of 2001, is not telling the truth?

- Mr Ruairi Quinn

I outlined my views to the Independent deputies some months ago, and I do not believe they have spoken to anyone else about this matter. No decisions can be made until that report [of the all-party committee on the Constitution] is presented to the House and considered by the Cabinet sub-committee, so nobody could have made any promises one way or another.

- The Taoiseach, Mr Ahern