It is proposed to take Nos. 1, 2 and 3 in that order. The Committee of Selection is meeting at 3 p.m. for the purpose of dealing with the selection of members for the Committee on Semi-State Bodies and it is proposed that we should receive the report of the committee at the conclusion of business today.
Order of Business.
I should like to ask the Leader of the House what is the position about No. 7 on the Order of Business. I think the Second Stage debate on the Family Planning Bill, 1974, was taken on the last sitting day, which was a month ago today, and it was adjourned to give the Tánaiste an opportunity to consult with the political parties. That consultation was not to take very long and my guess is that the consultation is finished. Therefore we should continue with the Second Stage of the Bill. It might be convenient for the political parties to let it rest, but I do not think we should. I think we should take item No. 7 as soon as possible. I would like an undertaking from the Leader of the House about the possibilities of taking item No. 7.
I should like to support Senator West in his suggestion that we should continue the debate on this very important subject. It would be quite absurd if we leave it hanging in midair like Mohammed's coffin without apparently having the courage of our convictions to vote for it or against it. That is positive action. But we should not leave it the way it is. Could the Leader of the House give us some indication when he thinks it will be possible for us to take it?
I have not any information when the proposers wish to continue the discussion on No. 7. As far as I am concerned it is a matter for the House. If the House want to order it for today, they are entitled to do so. The Minister has already made his contribution, so it would not seem to me that the Minister's attendance is necessary if the House want to go ahead with the discussion.
The question is: "That the Order of Business for today be Nos. 1, 2 and 3 with the report of the Committee of Selection when received."
I move an amendment: "To add No. 7 to the Order of Business."
Senator Browne is proposing an amendment that we add No. 7 to the Order of Business. Is that seconded? As there is no seconder, the amendment fails. I am putting the main queston.
Vótáil.
Senators should remain silent when a question is being put from the Chair. The question before the House is "That the Order of Business for today be Nos. 1, 2 and 3 with the report of the Committee of Selection when received." On that question a division is being challenged. Will the Senators seeking a division please rise in their places?
Senator West and Senator Browne rose.
Order of Business agreed to, Senator West and Senator Browne dissenting.
Is it not a farcical situation that none of the parties in the House should be prepared to take up a position on this very serious and important issue? The Minister for Health is not the only Pontius Pilate. There is a full House of them.
The Senator should have made any remarks he wished to make when the matter was under discussion.