Seanad Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 19 Dec 1984

Vol. 106 No. 10

Business of Seanad.

An Cathaoirleach

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

The collapse of the Clover Meats Processing Plants and the serious financial consequences which the closure caused the farmers and workers.

I regret that I have to rule this matter is not suitable for discussion on the Adjournment on the grounds of lack of ministerial responsibility and the fact that the matter can be raised on the debate on the Appropriation Bill, 1984 currently before the House.

Mr. Kiely

I appreciate that it can be raised in the debate on the Appropriation Bill, but I cannot understand how a matter of such importance with the consequences to farmers——

An Cathaoirleach

You cannot argue about the ruling of the Chair. I may listen to you later.

Mr. Kiely

I would like the Minister here to answer before I go. I am as concerned about the Clover Meats situation as is the Minister for Agriculture.

An Cathaoirleach

I am very concerned about it.

Mr. Ferris

That is not fair comment, to accuse the Minister of inactivity in the dispute which preceded the closure. It is unfair to blame the Minister for inactivity.

Mr. Lanigan

The leader of the Labour group has suggested that the Minister has not been inactive. His inactivity is one of the reasons why the plant is closed.

Mr. Ferris

That is unfair, as Senator Lanigan knows. I am not defending any Minister. If Senator Lanigan was present at all the meetings concerning Clover Meats he would know the activity of the Ministers. This is the private sector in which Ministers are trying to help and he is accusing them of inactivity.