Seanad Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 10 Aug 1971

Vol. 71 No. 1

Business of Seanad.

Mr. O'Higgins

— In connection with my application under Standing Order No. 26 I propose withdrawing that application on the understanding that I be permitted to move a motion which is very brief and reads as follows:

That in view of the critical situation for the Irish people north and south which has arisen because of recent events in Northern Ireland, Seanad Éireann urges the desirability of joint discussion thereon between the Government and Opposition Parties in Oireachtas Éireann.

If Members agree, I will withdraw the application under Standing Order No. 26 and, at whatever time may be agreed, move this motion. This would, of course, involve an alteration in the Order of Business.

Tomás Ó Maoláin

I have no objection.

An Cathaoirleach

The Order of Business was fixed this afternoon at 3 p.m., but it is open to the House, by general agreement, to vary the Order of Business if it so wishes. The Chair would suggest, if the House agrees, that this motion might be taken at 8.30 p.m. tonight, the proceedings on that motion to be brought to a conclusion by 9.30 p.m. or, if finished earlier, then the Order of Business as agreed this afternoon to be resumed. Is that agreed?

Senators: Agreed.

Mrs. Robinson

It seems to me, just taking a quick note of the motion, that it is a very limited motion, much more limited than a discussion would warrant on the northern situation. It seems, if I have got the gist of it, that it just urges, in view of the critical situation, a joint discussion between the Government and the Oireachtas parties here. I would not have thought it needed a Seanad resolution to do this. I would have thought the situation in the north required a great deal more than this. I would be in favour of a much more formidable debate than that and if there is a motion taken tonight I shall certainly move No. 19 on the Order Paper this evening, that is a motion to discuss——

An Cathaoirleach

This provisional agreement has been come to as a result of a great deal of discussion and the Chair would strongly suggest that at this moment this procedure be agreed.

Senators

Agreed.