I might inform the Seanad that despite the fact that this motion is only appearing for the first time on the Order Paper today I propose to allow it to be taken today on the grounds that the matter was discussed among all groups in the Seanad before being placed on the Order Paper.
Hours of Sitting: Motion.
I move:
That, notwithstanding anything in Standing Orders and unless the Seanad shall otherwise resolve, the following provisions shall apply in respect of each week in which the Seanad sits:—
(a) on the first day of sitting the Seanad shall meet at 2.30 p.m.; and
(b) on the second and any subsequent day of sitting the Seanad shall meet at 10.30 a.m.
The question of the hours of sitting of the Seanad has been considered by the Committee on Procedure and Privileges. It is agreed that in future the customary hour of adjournment shall be 8.30 p.m. on days when at present the Seanad adjourns at 10.00 p.m. In order that this change will not reduce the time available for the discharge of business it is proposed in this motion that unless the Seanad otherwise resolves the Seanad shall meet at 2.30 p.m. on the first sitting day of any week and at 10.30 a.m. on the second and any subsequent sitting day. Where a matter is to be discussed on the Adjournment the present arrangement whereby the discussion commences 30 minutes before the adjournment time will continue. It is also proposed to continue the present practice of suspending the sitting for lunch on days when the House meets at 10.30 a.m. The evening suspension will, however, be discontinued unless, exceptionally, the state of business allows it. Since the adjournment time and suspension of sittings are treated as a matter of custom it is not necessary to provide for them in this motion.
Question put and agreed to.