That Bill was introduced into this Seanad and the object is to postpone the annual valuation which should take place this year, and which, owing to the enormous amount of work thrown on the public Departments, they have not had time to carry out.
SEANAD IN COMMITTEE. - VALUATION (POSTPONEMENT OF REVISION) BILL, 1923.
AN CATHAOIRLEACH
Motion "That the Bill be read a Second Time," put and agreed to.
I move to suspend Standing Orders in order that the Bill may be taken in Committee.
Agreed to.
Motion: "That the Bill pass through Committee" put and agreed to.
Motion: "That the Bill be finally considered and do now pass," put and agreed to.
Several members of the Seanad have mentioned the somewhat unsatisfactory position we are placed in with regard to the number of those Bills imposed on us. Most of us recognise that they are of an urgent character. A very unsatisfactory position would result if the Bills are not passed. At the same time we do not want to give the impression that we have really given full consideration to those Bills, and a suggestion was made that possibly a resolution might be passed reserving our right to bring up those Bills for further consideration when the new Parliament re-assembles, and expressing the view that while we passed those Bills as a matter of routine we did not give them that full consideration which they would otherwise have got. I understand a similar promise had been given to the other House, and I have no doubt the same promise will be given to this House if the Bills are passed. In regard to the others which are rather non-contentious some such resolution might be acceptable to the Seanad. I have not drafted any resolution but I think there will be no difficulty if a few Senators come together in doing so.
I should like to support the proposal.
AN CATHAOIRLEACH
Having regard to what Senator Douglas and Senator Sir John Keane have said, when they bring this resolution forward they will want the support of 10 Senators so that it can be disposed of.
I wish to support the suggestion. The Bill to wind up the Dail Courts for instance might require a good deal more consideration than we can afford to give it. If Senator Douglas brings forward a resolution on the lines he suggests I will support it.
AN CATHAOIRLEACH
I do not wish to say anything more than I said a few days ago, when I thought it my duty to make a protest on behalf of the entire body of the Seanad. At the same time it is perfectly obvious that we can not relieve ourselves of our responsibility before the public in regard to these Bills. I think it is desirable that the Seanad should emphasise the position in which they are placed, and—while asserting and admitting the responsibility—at the same time make it clear that under normal conditions they would have desired and insisted upon a much longer period for their discussion and deliberation.
I would support the proposal of Senator Douglas. I think the Defence Forces Bill would require a good deal of consideration.
I would endeavour to draft a resolution and with your approval bring it forward in the morning with the necessary support.
Why not now?
It will require some care in drafting.