It is proposed to take business in the following order: Nos. 1, 6 and 7 and in No. 7, Vote 37 (resumed).
Order of Business.
Arising from the Order of Business, may I ask the Taoiseach whether he has given, or will give any consideration to having a general debate in the House because of the controversial issues that are being bandied about by way of ministerial statements regarding the Council of Ireland, such as majority consent of the people of the Six Counties, diplomatic relations with the USSR, the present level of policing on the Border and all these various things in view of the fact that we did not have an Adjournment debate at the end of the summer term? These are only some matters and there may be others.
They can be debated on my Estimate.
When are we likely to have that opportunity?
I suppose before the end of the session.
And have the end of the session sooner than usual?
In regard to my question which was ruled out of order by the Chair today, for my guidance could the Chair tell me how I can obtain this information within the rules of the House? This is factual information in relation to price increases.
The Deputy may not raise the matter in this way. If any further explanation is necessary, the Deputy may have it by calling to my office.
The Chair allowed a discussion on the same subject here today——
No, I did not; certainly not.
Surely I am entitled to factual information in relation to price increases?
It is not in order. This is not a matter for the Chair.
On the Order of Business and on another point of order, I understand that Deputy Dowling is not questioning your ruling in relation to the question but is pointing out that he has been seeking factual information. The Minister indicated he was willing to give it and the Deputy is seeking your guidance as to how he can go about getting that information within the rules of order.
I have already intimated to the Deputy that if he requires any further information I shall be glad to assist him in the matter but he may not raise the matter in the House.
May I inquire when item No. 12 on the Order Paper, Misuse of Drugs Bill, will be circulated?
Not for a short while yet.
Does that mean before Christmas?
It might be.
Is the Minister aware that Bill was circulated by his predecessor? Does he propose to make major changes in it?
Some changes.
The Bill is very urgent. The main Opposition were then pressing very strongly for it. I think the need is even greater now and I would ask the Minister to produce it particularly as it has already been drafted and circulated.
He will not take the 12 months that you took.
He got it on a plate.
(Interruptions.)