Before coming to the Order of Business, I propose to deal with a number of topics under Standing Order 31, dealing with three different issues. I propose to deal with these separately and I will call on Members in the order in which they submitted notices to my office.
Request to move Adjournment of Dáil under Standing Order 31.
I propose the Adjournment of the Dáil under Standing Order 31 to discuss an item of national importance. The reduction in the number employed on community employment schemes is an attack by the Government on the most vulnerable in our society. People who have done marvellous work in our communities are being told there is no more work and they should return to the dole queues. This is surely false economy. I ask the Minister to reconsider his position, maintain the numbers involved and continue this valuable community service, particularly in areas where there is no public transport.
Having considered the matter fully, I do not consider it to be in accordance with Standing Order 31.
I seek the Adjournment of the Dáil under Sanding Order 31 in light of the devastation caused by the oil tanker, Prestige. The House should have an opportunity to debate and set out a timeframe for the implementation of measures whereby we, as a State, could cope with such a disaster, as pointed out by my colleague, Deputy Sargent, yesterday during Leaders' Questions.
Having considered the matter fully, I do not consider it to be in accordance with Standing Order 31.
I seek leave to move the Adjournment of the Dáil on the following specific and important matter of public interest requiring urgent consideration, namely, the urgent need for police reform in the State and the need for the establishment of an independent policing board and Garda ombudsman as demonstrated by the revelation that a large number of gardaí have refused to co-operate with the Garda Complaints Board in its investigation into the unprovoked Garda assault on peaceful demonstrators on 6 May, with the result that a number of gardaí who were responsible will evade disciplinary action.
Having considered the matter fully, I do not consider it to be in accordance with Standing Order 31.