Before the motion for the Adjournment is taken I should let the House know that representations have been made that it would be of convenience if the Central Fund Bill which, I am given to understand, we will receive from the Dáil this week, could be considered by the Seanad next week. The Bill will, I presume, be certified as a Money Bill, and it is provided under the Standing Orders that if no meeting of the Seanad is fixed to take place within seven days of the receipt of a Bill of that description, the House must be summoned to meet within such seven days. The days upon which we might meet next week would be Tuesday, Thursday or Friday—Wednesday being St. Patrick's Day. I would like to have an indication from the Seanad as to which of these days would best convenience Senators' arrangements.
Business of Seanad.
I have been discussing this matter with various people and, so far as I understood, Thursday seems to be the more suitable day. Most people would like to be at home on St. Patrick's Day.
There would be great difficulty in travelling on St. Patrick's Day.
As far as I know, the trains are running on St. Patrick's Day. On the other hand, if the House meets on Tuesday, people will be trying to get home on St. Patrick's Day.
If you meet on Friday, it is always a rush, and I never saw very good work done here on Friday.
There is a further consideration, I suggest. The debate on the Bill may last for two days.
Will the necessary seven days have expired before Thursday?
We do not expect to receive the Bill before Friday.
Could they not keep it until Monday?
The question of the seven days is important.
We will bear that in mind, Senator.
I suggest we meet on Thursday.
Very well; Thursday, 18th March, at 3 o'clock.
The Seanad adjourned at 6.20 p.m. until 3 p.m. on Thursday, 18th March.