I move:
"That the Merrion Square (Dublin) Bill, 1927," be read a Second Time.
PRIVATE BUSINESS. - MERRION SQUARE (DUBLIN) BILL, 1927—SECOND STAGE.
Can I get come information about the Bill now?
CATHAOIRLEACH
At this Stage there can be no discussion. If there is any objection to the Bill being considered to-day it stands over.
Can I get some information about it?
CATHAOIRLEACH
I am afraid that under our Standing Orders it is not open for discussion now. The Standing Order says that when any stage of a private Bill is first taken no discussion shall be allowed, and, if a Bill is opposed, it shall not be proceeded with on that occasion. Apparently, I am precluded from having any discussion at this stage. The procedure differs from an ordinary public Bill in this way: that the passing of this stage only means that it is referred to a committee. On Committee all interests can be represented. It is not like a public Bill because the parties can appear with counsel and argue the pros and cons of the Bill. I think that is the reason why the Standing Order was passed in conformity with the practice prevailing in the British legislature.
Does that apply where some information is required as to what the Bill is likely to include?
CATHAOIRLEACH
I think it does. I think this is intended to be purely a formal stage unless a Senator objects. In that case the Bill is not to be proceeded with, and shall be placed on the Orders of the Day for the next sitting of the House. If the Bill be then opposed consideration shall again be postponed, and the Speaker of the Dáil and the Chairman of the Seanad shall fix a time for its further consideration. I think, under these circumstances, all we can do is to pass the Second Reading to-day unless there is an objection.
In the absence of the information I require, I am sorry to oppose.
CATHAOIRLEACH
We cannot discuss the objection now. The moment objection is taken I have no alternative but to postpone the matter.
Is a Senator entitled to stand up and say "I object"?
CATHAOIRLEACH
Yes.
Can the reasons be given?
CATHAOIRLEACH
Not now. Each Senator is entitled to object without giving a reason, and in that event consideration is postponed to the next day the House sits, when it will appear on the Orders of the Day. If there is an objection again, the two Chairmen have to consider the matter, and fix a date on which it will be fully discussed. Meanwhile, I am sure, if Senator Mrs. Power applies to whoever is responsible for promoting the Bill, she will receive the information.
I do not know who is responsible. I suppose I can find out?
CATHAOIRLEACH
You will be entitled to get the fullest information on the day fixed for consideration of the Bill.
Senator Bennett has intimated that copies of the Bill are available in the Examiner's office.
I am afraid that will not give the information I require.
I think Senators should understand that the Leas-Chathaoirleach is acting impartially in the matter and is not acting on behalf of any of the parties. It is desirable that that should be known.