I move for leave to introduce a Bill entitled an Act to continue the Defence Forces (Temporary Provisions) Acts, 1923 to 1949.
Defence Forces (Temporary Provisions) (No. 2) Bill, 1949—First Stage.
I am opposing the First Reading until the Minister explains why he is introducing another Temporary Provisions Bill.
If the Deputy looks at No. 2 he will see the answer.
I do not see the answer in No. 2 yet.
The permanent Bill, as introduced, gets its First Reading under Order No. 2. In deference to the Deputy, in particular, I want to give the House ample time to discuss the permanent Bill. I do not want to put them in the position of having to have it law by the 31st March next.
Do I understand, then, that the Temporary Provisions Bill which the Minister is introducing now is to cover a period subsequent to the 31st March next?
Until the permanent Bill becomes law.
Is the Deputy opposing it or not? There can be no discussion unless it is opposed. That is the reason why the Chair asks the question.
I am opposing it for the purpose of getting the reasons from the Minister why he is introducing a Temporary Provisions Bill at this stage. I understand from the Minister that the First Reading will be given to-day to the permanent Bill and that the object of the Temporary Provisions Bill is to carry us over until that is made law. I am satisfied with that.
Very well.
Leave to introduce granted.
Second Stage ordered for Wednesday, 14th December.