Before I call on the Minister, perhaps the Leader of the House could tell us what is the intention.
Business of Seanad.
An Leas-Chathaoirleach
I do not think anyone would agree that the degree of progress here is such as to make a break compelling. Indeed, the lack of progress indicates that taking a break would only delay us further. Nevertheless, since both the Minister and a small number of Senators have been constantly involved, I think the House should take a break; but I would suggest that it be taken at the end of the debate on section 2 and that at the end of the debate on section 2 we adjourn for an hour.
That could end up to be quite some length of time. Perhaps it would be better that, as has been the custom, we should break now at 5.30 p.m. until 6.30 p.m. I do not mind waiting, but I think other Senators are already feeling the pressure and possibly could go to get a cup of tea.
I do not think my charity would stretch that far.
An Leas-Chathaoirleach
So we continue with section 2 and complete it and then take a break — for how long, Senator Dooge?
An hour.
There may be problems for some Members. I do not mind. I can sit here for two hours more, but I do not think that this will finish in a reasonable time.
The House has been sitting for three hours and has completed one section. I do not think it unreasonable that the business managers of the House should seek a second section before taking a break which was not ordered at 2.30 p.m.
If the Leader of the House would look back and see the length it took to get two sections done in the other House he will see the reason that I say that this could be quite lengthy.
An Leas-Chathaoirleach
Could we have agreement then on the break?
I do not wish this to be an encouragement but if section 2 is not finished at 6.30 p.m. the matter could be considered again.