Before we start, I should like to know whether it is yet possible for you, Sir, to make a statement with regard to the position of the Reporting Staff. I have heard it said—I think it was said officially— that the Reporting Staff are prepared to go to arbitration, provided the status quo ante 1961 is reverted to during arbitration. I should like to know whether that is a fact, and what precisely is being done by the authorities in relation to this difficulty which is putting obstacles in the way of the smooth running of the business of Parliament.
Business of Seanad.
Have you notice of that question, Sir?
No notice.
I should like to ask have you been able to ascertain when we will take this motion standing in my name and in the name of three other Senators which has been on the Order Paper for about six months now. This is a motion of public importance and I think the Seanad would have time to deal with it, if the appropriate Minister could come here.
That is a question for the Leader of the House.
It will be taken as early as possible.
I do not want the Leader of the House to bring relativity into the matter. It might be early in relation to what? It might not be early in relation to Senators who are elected for a certain period.
In view of the fact that at the last two meetings of the Seanad, I raised the question of the Reporting Staff, asked for a statement and was told the matter was under active consideration, I feel that we should at least be told what the present position is, even if it irritates Senator Hayes.
The matter is under active consideration. Arrangements have been made for the adequate reporting of the proceedings today starting at 3 o'clock. I am not in a position to make any further statement on the matter to the House now.
Thank you.