I move: That the Resolution of the Dáil of 27th January, 1976 relating to business and sittings on Tuesdays and Wednesdays be amended by the deletion of "Easter Recess, 1976" and the substitution of "Summer Recess, 1976".
Dáil Sittings: Motion.
I would like to stress this party's position on this motion. As the House is aware, we opposed this proposal when it was originally introduced and this is a request to the House to extend the trial period. We at this stage are equally opposed to the whole method of introducing these proposed changes. We made it clear at the outset that this was a matter for the Committee on Procedure and Privileges, as established by precedent, and those are the lines that should have been followed. Why this should be taken into the House and bulldozed through without having been properly discussed and agreed——
This was moved with the agreement of the Opposition.
I want to put on record our opposition to this motion, because this proposal to have a trial period extended could easily be interpreted as our acquiescence in allowing it to remain. We will be opposed to it when the opportunity arises, and we have the same fundamental objection to it as we had at the outset.
We appreciate that, but I understand that the Government Chief Whip and the Opposition Chief Whip agreed that it would be extended without any commitment until the end of the summer session, and then the matter will be reviewed.
I am only putting that on record.
Question put and agreed to.