Before the presentation by Dublin Chamber of Commerce, I would like to register a protest about a matter with which everybody will have sympathy. It is absolutely absurd that this committee is meeting to discuss serious issues during the Order of Business in both Houses. This is always the case in respect of the Seanad and today it is also the case in respect of the Dáil. The committee is not entitled to meet unless it is quorate, which means a Member of the Seanad should be present. I raised this on the Order of Business in the Seanad today and suggested to the Leader that, on the next occasion this occurs, she request Members of the House not to attend committee meetings until the Order of Business is agreed to.
Business of Joint Committee.
Senators Dooley, Browne and Morrissey were present at the commencement of the meeting.
I appeal that this not be the case on the next occasion. It will continue the process by which the Seanad is treated with contempt.
Senators Dooley, Morrissey and Browne attend practically every meeting of this committee and they are entitled to make their views known on important issues. Trying to——
As this should be dealt with in private session, we will leave it for now.
I agree absolutely with the Deputy.
In that case, the Senator should attend the meetings.
I cannot attend them because the Seanad takes priority.