Seanad Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 21 Nov 1979

Vol. 93 No. 3

Business of Seanad.

An Cathaoirleach

I have notice from Senator Connaughton that, on the motion for the Adjournment of the House today, he proposes to raise the following matter:

The extension of the 30-day test period.

This matter has important implications for the cattle trade and disease eradication policy and I consider it too wide to be dealt with under the half-hour Adjournment procedure. In the circumstances I must rule that the matter of which Senator Connaughton has given notice is not suitable for discussion on the Adjournment.

Mr. Connaughton

I am very disappointed with that ruling. I know the terms of reference for matters on the Adjournment. Most of the time the rulings are fair and reasonable but on this occasion and at a time when the cattle trade is on its knees——

An Cathaoirleach

The Senator's motion was ruled out of order because its scope is so wide and because this is a very important motion. Therefore, I would respectfully suggest to the Senator that he put it down as a motion for discussion in the House rather than have it limited to the very small period of a half an hour in which he could not do justice to it nor could other Senators join in.

Mr. Connaughton

Could we get any indication of when such a motion might be taken, in view of the seriousness of the cattle situation at the moment?

An Cathaoirleach

It is not usual for Senators to challenge the ruling of the Chair. I have ruled the motion out of order and I have outlined to the Senator that he can submit a motion and we will have it discussed in the ordinary way.