I move: "That the Second Stage be ordered for Thursday, 14 March 1985," subject to agreement between the Whips.
Local Government (Reorganisation) Bill, 1985: Order for Second Stage.
Bill entitled an Act to provide for certain reorganisation of Local Government and for that purpose to amend and extend the law relating to Local Government and to provide for certain other related matters.
How can the Minister expect agreement between the Whips or co-operation from this side of the House on this Bill if he is not prepared to cooperate with us? We also have to contest these elections. We are entitled to know the date on which they will be held and it should not be something which is preserved for the electoral advantage of the Government side of the House.
(Interruptions.)
I wonder if the Government realise the unseemly sight they present.
We should get this matter into perspective. The Taoiseach said that the date of the local elections would be announced as soon as possible after publication of the reports. The reports were published only last week so the date will be announced as soon as possible.
Unless the Government are more forthcoming they will not get much co-operation from this side of the House. We may be here until August debating this.
(Interruptions.)
I am asking Deputies to allow business to proceed.
There should be an emergency meeting of the handlers this morning. That is what they are paid for.
The cost is revealed in today's papers.
It is less in two years than Deputy Doherty spent in eight months.
We will be seeking an apology from the Minister.
(Interruptions.)
I am moving to item No. 10.
Will there be any more teapots?
Will the British Prime Minister accept the apology?
Apparently the Deputies on all sides do not wish the business to proceed and in those circumstances there is only one option to the Chair.
When the cat is away the mice can play.
Question put and agreed to.