At this stage I desire to refer to certain criticisms which were passed by Senator Connolly with regard to the short period allowed between the Committee and Report Stages of Bills that have come before us for the preparation of amendments. I think the criticisms made by the Senator were absolutely just. I have always endeavoured to see that ample time was afforded between the Committee and Report Stages of a Bill for the preparation of amendments. My predecessor frequently made complaints, and I have made complaints myself, in regard to the manner in which Bills are rushed upon us at the end of a session. These criticisms were made yesterday by Senator Connolly, and I left it to the House to decide whether or not they would take the Report Stage of this Bill to-day. As the House decided to take the Report Stage of the Bill to-day, no option in the matter was left to me, but I desire to say that I shall always endeavour to see that a reasonable time elapses between the taking of the various stages of Bills. I hope that a situation such as has occurred at this meeting of the House will not happen again in the future.
Stages of Bills in the Seanad.
