Before coming to the Order of Business I propose to deal with a notice of motion under Standing Order 30 from Deputy Geoghegan-Quinn. I call on the Deputy to state the matter of which she has given me notice.
Request to Move Adjournment of Dáil under Standing Order 30.
I seek the Adjournment of the Dáil under Standing Order 30 to discuss the urgent and serious situation arising in the Midland Health Board areas where 450 nurses have withdrawn their services because of the refusal of the health board to appoint sufficient staff to carry out the necessary duties.
Having considered the matter fully I do not consider it to be one contemplated by the relevant Standing Order. Therefore, I cannot grant leave to move the motion.
Sir, I very much regret you do not allow a matter as serious as this to be discussed this morning but seek your permission to have it discussed by way of a Private Notice Question.
The matter has been continuing for some time. There were ample opportunities for Members to raise it in the House in a variety of ways but I will bear in mind the Deputy's request and seek to facilitate her.
While discussions have been continuing for some time the strike takes place today; that is why it is so urgent and serious.
I will bear the matter the Deputy has raised very much in mind.