It is proposed to take Nos. 3, 7, 8, 1 and 9. It is also proposed that the Dáil shall sit later than 9 p.m. today and business shall be interrupted at 10.30 p.m. in relation to No. 7 it is proposed that the proceedings on the Second Stage shall be brought to a conclusion, if not previously concluded, at 9.30 p.m. and that proceedings on the Committee and remaining Stages, if not previously concluded, shall be brought to a conclusion at 10.30 p.m. by one question which shall be put from the Chair and which shall, in relation to amendments, include only amendments set down by the Minister for Agriculture and Food. Private Members' Business shall be No. 23.
Order of Business.
May I ask if the proposal for the late sitting today is agreed? Agreed. Is the proposal for dealing with No. 7 agreed? Agreed.
On the Order of Business, may I ask the Taoiseach if he intends to make a statement in the House covering fully and in detail his and the Minister for Agriculture and Food's knowledge of and involvement in the events leading up to the closing of the Thurles sugar factory?
Deputy Dukes, that clearly is not in order.
I am not asking for an answer to the question now.
Deputy Dukes should find a more appropriate way in accordance with the rules of this House to raise such a matter.
I am asking if the Taoiseach intends to make a statement in the House because I have reason to believe that we have not heard the full story and I think the House is entitled to hear it.
I am calling on Deputy Maureen Quill.
I am entitled to ask on the Order of Business, Sir, if the Taoiseach intends to make a statement as part of the business of the House.
The Deputy should put down a question on the matter.
You may be sure, a Cheann Comhairle, that I will put down a series of questions on the issue, but I would like the Taoiseach to have the opportunity of clearing the air before he comes to deal with those questions.
I will be delighted to deal with any questions which the Deputy or any other Deputy may put down and which are in order. I have already given the House my solemn assurance that it is the wish of myself and my colleagues that every aspect of this matter be brought fully to the attention of Deputies.
I am delighted to be able to tell the Taoiseach that he will be afforded that opportunity very shortly.
I wish to raise on the Adjournment the issue of the Cork-Swansea ferry service. Could I ask the Minister if an approach has been made by him——
Sorry, Deputy, it is sufficient to ask for the question on the Adjournment. I will communicate with you on the matter.
Could I join with Deputy Quill in her request to raise that issue?
I will communicate with the Deputy.