I am in a somewhat difficult position owing to the discussion that took place about a week ago, as to the advisability of sitting every Wednesday. If we adjourn the House until next Wednesday, as far as I can see there will not be business to occupy the House for more than a few minutes. At the same time it is immaterial to me how often we sit. The more often we meet the better I like it, but I am not sure that that feeling is shared by the whole House, particularly those Senators who have to come a considerable distance. I am placed in a considerable difficulty owing to this divergence of views. It does not seem that it would be a very wise thing to convene the House for next Wednesday if there is not sufficient business, but I am in the hands of the House in this matter.
PRIVATE BUSINESS. - BUSINESS OF THE SEANAD.
CATHAOIRLEACH
Could the matter not be put before the Committee on Procedure?
I do not think it arises on that. My view is quite simple —that it is on Monday you, sir, should come to a decision as to whether there is likely to be business. Last week we were given the impression that there would be no business for this week and, as a matter of fact, it is now 6.30, and we could go on much longer. Some Senators could at any rate. It seems to me the mistake is in trying to decide the previous Wednesday whether there will be business for the following week. It makes it very difficult. For instance there is the Bill I introduced, and there is the Birds Bill. If there was no other business, we could take these Bills. I think we should meet regularly in order that the Government and the Dáil may know that we meet regularly on Wednesday, and if they have any business, that they can count on that. I think that has been a source of a considerable amount of criticism.
CATHAOIRLEACH
We could adjourn till Wednesday unless Senators are notified in the meantime that the state of business would not justify meeting on that day.
If there is no decision until Monday some Senators living in the country might not get their post till Tuesday and they would be placed at a disadvantage.
CATHAOIRLEACH
I think I could make up my mind on the matter on Friday.
If necessary a tele gram could be sent to Senators in the country. It would be cheaper than train fare anyway.
If the business on next Wednesday will only occupy a few minutes would it not be well to adjourn till Wednesday week?
CATHAOIRLEACH
We have a meeting to-morrow of the Special Committee to which one of the Constitution Bills was referred. They may conclude their labours to-morrow and may be in a position to report to-morrow. If so, that would form one item on Wednesday's programme. There would also be Senator Douglas's Bill. I understand, however, that the Patents Bill will not be passed until Tuesday next. I do not think, in view of the position, that we would have sufficient business, and it is better to say that the House stands adjourned till Wednesday week.
The Seanad adjourned at 6.35 p.m. till Wednesday, 23rd February.