Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 19 May 2004

Vol. 585 No. 6

Treaty of Amsterdam: Motions.

Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith)

I move:

That the proposal that Dáil Éireann approve the exercise by the State of the option or discretion provided by Article 1.11 of the Treaty of Amsterdam to take part in the adoption of the following proposed measure:

a proposal for a Council framework decision laying down minimum provisions on the constituent elements of criminal acts and penalties in the field of illicit drug trafficking,

a copy of which proposed measure was laid before Dáil Éireann on 18 February 2004, be referred to the Joint Committee on Justice, Equality, Defence and Women's Rights, in accordance with paragraph (2) of the orders of reference of that committee, which, not later than 2 June 2004, shall send a message to the Dáil in the manner prescribed in Standing Order 85, and Standing Order 84(2) shall accordingly apply.

Question put and agreed to.

Mr. M. Smith

I move:

That the proposal that Dáil Éireann approve, in accordance with Article 29.4.6° of Bunreacht na hÉireann, the exercise by the State of the option, provided by Article 3 of the Fourth Protocol set out in the Treaty of Amsterdam, to notify the President of the Council of the European Union that it wishes to take part in the adoption and application of the following proposed measure:

a proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and the Council creating a European order for payment procedure,

a copy of which proposed measure was laid before Dáil Éireann on 8 April 2004 be referred to the Joint Committee on Justice, Equality, Defence and Women's Rights, in accordance with paragraph (2) of the orders of reference of that committee, which, not later than 2 June 2004, shall send a message to the Dáil in the manner prescribed in Standing Order 85, and Standing Order 84(2) shall accordingly apply."

Mr. Durkan

I agree with the proviso that the House receive the reports before the matter is referred back to the House.

An Ceann Comhairle

It is agreed. There cannot be a debate on the matter now.

Mr. R. Bruton

I tabled a motion yesterday seeking to recommit to Committee Stage ——

An Ceann Comhairle

It is not possible even to discuss the Deputy's motion until Report Stage of the Bill is before the House. I ask the Deputy to allow the Minister to speak first. I will call the Deputy when Report Stage is before the House.

Question put and agreed to.