I wish to inform the Dáil that it is not proposed to proceed with the Committee Stage of the Summer Time Bill. The French Government have made arrangements for the holding of a conference, in the hope of arriving at a common date for the commencing and ending of Summer Time. Represented at the conference there will be Belgium and Holland, Great Britain, and, of course, the French Government. In the despatch informing us of the proposal to hold this conference, we were asked whether we would wish to send a representative. It is not proposed to send a representative, but I think it would be advisable to mark time with regard to this Bill pending the result of the conference. Consequently, I do not propose to proceed with the Committee Stage.
PUBLIC SAFETY (POWERS OF ARREST AND DETENTION) TEMPORARY BILL, 1923. - SUMMER TIME BILL.
Mr. O'HIGGINS
Having regard to the fact that we are the most westerly country, and that this Bill most vitally affects our country—Belgium and Holland could not legislate for countries so westward as we are—I think the Minister should reconsider the question of sending a representative from Ireland.
Mr. O'HIGGINS
There is no intention to allow either Belgium or Holland, or both, to legislate for this country.
Considering the different circumstances and the different position geographically, I suggest to the Minister that it would be advisable to send a representative from this country, and that the Executive Council should reconsider their decision.
Mr. O'HIGGINS
The matter has been considered and the view is that the advantage would not justify the cost, and, therefore, we do not propose to participate.
Order for Third Stage of Summer Time Bill discharged.