I call on the Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach, Deputy Paul Kehoe, to move a motion in respect of the arrangements for dealing with the financial resolutions.
Financial Resolutions 2012: Allocation of Time: Motion
I move:
That, notwithstanding anything in Standing Orders, the financial motions by the Minister for Finance shall, for the purpose of debate, be moved and grouped together in accordance with the following schedule and the proceedings thereon, and on any amendments thereto, shall, in the case of each resolution or group, as appropriate, be brought to a conclusion by one question which shall be put from the Chair not later than the times indicated as follows: Resolution No. 1, to conclude after 10 minutes; Resolution No. 2, to conclude after 15 minutes; Resolution No. 3, to conclude after 15 minutes; Resolution No. 4, to conclude after 20 minutes; Resolution No. 5, to conclude after 10 minutes; Resolution No. 6, to conclude after 10 minutes; Resolution No. 7, to conclude after 15 minutes; Resolutions Nos. 8 to 12, to conclude after 30 minutes.
Could a copy of the proposals be circulated to all Members for our convenience?
Or be left available.
Could we agree the motion first?
We must see what we are reading. One should never agree to something that one has not read.
I have met the Opposition Whips and the Government is being generous with time. The proposal brings us up to approximately 11.20 p.m., at which point the final vote will be called. If a vote is called on this motion, I will need to revise the schedule and reduce the number of minutes per resolution.
We are happy with the proposal and the Whips had a successful meeting, but we are looking for a copy of the document for the convenience of Members.
I only have my own copy.
I must get this motion agreed. Deputy Higgins is objecting.
Yes. I appreciate that much business needs to be done, but the time frame for some of the resolutions is ten and 15 minutes. I will agree to the motion provided that an undertaking is given to the effect that the opening contributions of the Government and the two main Opposition parties will allow sufficient time for the United Left Alliance and Independent Deputies to make short contributions also. Could we have that assurance from the Chief Whip?
The procedure for these motions is similar to that of Committee Stage on a Bill.
Exactly, but one or two Deputies could talk out the entire time and not give the rest of us an opportunity.
I hope everyone will agree to the understanding. We are wasting time.
Absolutely. I explained at the Whips' meeting that these resolutions must be passed before midnight.
We know.
If we continue to waste time, I will need to revise the schedule during the next couple of minutes. I understand Deputy Higgins's concerns. This is a Committee Stage resolution and I understand that the Ceann Comhairle will give everyone an opportunity to speak in so far as it is possible.
I will endeavour to be as fair as possible to everyone.
I agree on the basis that the understanding is adhered to by all parties.
Could the Minister of State circulate the document, please?
Question put and agreed to.