Since I put down the motion that stands in my name, it has come to my knowledge that the discussion would give rise to certain considerations regarding the collective responsibility of Ministers in the making of Government appointments as well as to questions of Parliamentary usage. These are considerations which would largely, if not entirely, overshadow the issue I was anxious to put before the House. I feel that, if these considerations are to be raised and discussed, they should be raised directly and not indirectly by way of this motion. Therefore, I do not propose to move the motion. There will be another opportunity of dealing with the matter.
Business of Seanad.
The following motion was on the Order Paper in the name of Senator O'Connell:
That Seanad Eireann views with disfavour the action of the Minister for Education in regard to the filling of the recent vacancy in the Technical Branch of the Department of Education.
Before the motion is withdrawn——
Leas-Chathaoirleach
The motion is not being withdrawn. It lapses, as it is not being moved.
If I were in order, I should like to express the hope that this action by Senator O'Connell will have the effect of stopping this infamous——
Leas-Chathaoirleach
The motion is not moved and there can be no debate upon it.
I acted as I did for the reasons which I gave and for no other reasons.
Leas-Chathaoirleach
The motion lapses under the provisions of Standing Order 28 and there can be no debate upon it.
Motion not moved.
The Seanad adjourned at 8.55 p.m. until 3 p.m. on Wednesday, 8th March.