Would the Senators who are here bear with me for a few moments before I take the matter on the Adjournment of the House? Because of something that happened earlier this evening in this House, and because of my commitment to the Chair I was quite upset about it, I feel that for the record of myself and the officials I should make the following statement. Before the House adjourns I want to clarify for the record the question raised earlier this evening after a vote on Item 8, motion on pensions, by two Senators who alleged they were prevented from voting by the doors being locked earlier than is usual on a division. Indeed, the Senators requested that this matter should be referred to the Committee on Procedure and Privileges, of which I am a member. I agreed to that and the Senators have the right to refer any matter to that committee. Without wishing to pre-empt the committee's views on the matter, since the vote was taken I have had the opportunity to have the matter investigated. I am perfectly satisfied, as Leas-Chathaoirleach, that the division was taken in accordance with normal practice of this House. I felt that for the record of this House I had to set this point straight for myself, as Leas-Chathaoirleach.
Calling of Division: Statement by Leas-Chathaoirleach.
