Before coming to the Order of Business I propose to deal with two notices under Standing Order 32. I call Deputy Michael Healy-Rae. Is Deputy Healy-Rae present? As the Deputy is not in the Chamber, I call Deputy Dessie Ellis.
Requests to move Adjournment of Dail under Standing Order 32
I seek the adjournment of the Dáil under Standing Order 32 to raise a matter of national importance, namely, in light of the recent report by World Health Organisation cancer experts which states that mobile telephone use may increase the risk of certain types of brain tumours, to ask the Minister for Health and Children to comment on what is being done by his Department to ascertain how much, if any, threat is represented by mobile telephone networks to the health of the population. Millions of people use mobile telephones in this country and many are concerned about transmitters and masts in their area. I hope the Minister will address this issue.
Having considered the matter, it is not in accordance with Standing Order 32.
Is anything in accordance with Standing Order 32?
However, the Deputy's request reminds me to ask Members to switch off their mobile telephones. I have had complaints regarding interference with the recording of the proceedings of the House.
Perhaps we could debate that issue.
I ask Members to keep that in mind.
A Cheann Comhairle, I understood it was I, not Deputy Healy-Rae, who was tabled to request an adjournment under Standing Order 32. I submitted my request last night.
You will have to get in earlier, Seamus.
A Deputy
Deputy Healy must not have a mobile telephone.
What does the Deputy's request relate to?
It concerns the closure of 400 post offices by An Post.
I apologise, I was given to understand it was Deputy Healy-Rae who wished to make a request.
I have a copy of the notification.
My apologies, the Deputy may proceed.
I seek the adjournment of the Dáil under Standing Order 32 to raise a matter of national importance, namely, the policy of An Post to close 400 post offices, including the announcement yesterday of the impending closure of Bansha post office, County Tipperary, thus withdrawing a vital public service from the local community, especially the elderly who are dependent on the post office for pension payments and other necessary services; and to ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources to make a statement on the matter.
This matter is not in accordance with Standing Order 32.