Before the Seanad rises I would like to say that there is certain to be two days' continuous work next week, and probably three, with the possibility of running into four. My own belief is that three days will be the maximum.
ADJOURNMENT OF THE SEANAD.
AN CATHAOIRLEACH
I beg to move the adjournment of the Seanad until next Wednesday, and, in doing so, perhaps I would be in order in raising a small point to which some publicity might be given. A number of Government Bills are of such a character that they might be introduced first in the Seanad. I think that would help to prevent the congestion of business and add to the usefulness of the Seanad. I do not think we should pass a formal resolution asking the Government to introduce Bills in the Seanad first, but I think, if you rule with me, and if the Seanad agrees, that we would be glad to give facilities to Ministers to introduce Bills here as it would be in the public interest. There are some Bills, like the Films Bill, which could have been commenced here, as for some weeks we had no business to do. Now we have a good deal, and later we may have very little. I mention the matter, as it is one for general agreement, and perhaps you could convey it to the President.
If there are to be four days sitting of the Seanad next week perhaps we could meet on Tuesday. I gather that members do not like meeting on Saturdays.
AN CATHAOIRLEACH
As far as I can gather, I think the business will be disposed of at latest on Friday. If by any chance it is not concluded on Friday, anything not disposed of can be carried on until the following Wednesday.
With reference to the point raised by Senator Douglas as to the introduction of Bills in the Seanad, does not that matter come under the Committee we have appointed and of which you are a member, to make regulations between the two Houses?
AN CATHAOIRLEACH
There is nothing to prevent the Government initiating a Bill in the Seanad. As I understand it, what Senator Douglas desired was to bring before the Government the fact that, as our time is not perhaps as fully occupied as that of the Dáil, they should make more use of the Seanad for the purpose of originating Bills.
I thought that matter was already under consideration.
AN CATHAOIRLEACH
What is under consideration is as to what will happen in the event of Bills being introduced in one Chamber where prima facie you would expect them to be introduced in the other Chamber, and as to the interchange of communication. At present there is nothing to interfere with Senator Douglas's suggestion.
It would be an admirable one.
The Seanad adjourned at 5.20 p.m.