On the question of legislation will the Minister for Tourism, Transport and Communications say whether the Bus Competition Bill will be taken this session?
Order of Business (Resumed).
It is not likely to be taken this session.
Can the Taoiseach indicate when it is likely to be taken?
It is being pursued as actively as possible.
Unlike the homosexuality Bill.
Notwithstanding the fact that there was a debate in this House in July last in relation to European affairs, in view of the fact that perhaps this Government, or another, will be signing on behalf of the Irish Republic two treaties in Maastricht in Holland in less than seven weeks which will profoundly affect the future of this State, do the Government intend having a debate prior to that meeting? Do they intend indicating to this House what will be their position in advance of that meeting at Maastricht? Will the Taoiseach say whether time will be made available for such debate in this House in advance of that meeting?
I am not averse to such a debate. It is a matter the Whips can consider.
May I sincerely thank the Taoiseach for that response.
I want to go on to the Order of Business proper.
If there is to be such a debate can the Taoiseach assure the House that there will be replies to questions so that we will actually know what will be the formal position of the Irish Government in advance of the Maastricht meeting?
May I ask the Taoiseach when the Bill to amend the Solicitors Act will be published and whether it will be taken this session?
It is on the list for this session.
When will it be published? We were promised it last June.
I am not too sure but I will let the Deputy know.
In view of the horrors of incipient sectarian civil war in Belfast will the Taoiseach ensure at his meeting this afternoon with the British Secretary of State, that the Minister for Foreign Affairs on behalf of this House will express our concern in the strongest possible terms, urging on the British Secretary of State, as an initial step, that the organisation called the UDA which masquerades as the UFF be banned?