I have notice from Senator David Norris that, on the motion for the Adjournment of the House today, he proposes to raise the following matter:
The implications of the closure of Dr. Steevens' Hospital.
I also received notice from Senator Joe O'Toole of the following matter:
Publication of Bills in Irish before discussion in Houses of the Oireachtas.
I also received notice from Senator Philip Hogan of the following matter:
The present position regarding building projects for the National Schools at Lisdowney, Graiguenamanagh, Mooneenroe and Castlecomer Community School.
I also received notice from Senator Nuala Fennell of the following matter:
The severe underfunding of the Council for the Status of Women which represents 250,000 women and 55 affiliated organisations.
I also received notice from Senator Katharine Bulbulia of the following matter:
The need for the Minister for Health to restore funding to the County and City Infirmary, Waterford in order to ensure that the people of that area have an adequate surgical and medical service.
I regard the matters raised by Senators Norris, Hogan, Fennell and Bulbulia as suitable for discussion on the Adjournment. I have selected Senator Norris' motion and it will be taken from 8 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. or earlier if the business ordered is concluded. Senators Hogan, Fennell and Bulbulia may give notice for another day of the matters they wish to raise. I regret I have to disallow the matter raised by Senator Joe O'Toole on the grounds that it is a matter for the House itself in that it falls within the ambit of Standing Orders.
During the last session there was a lot of repetition. I remember, as Cathaoirleach, on two occasions reading out 14 motions for the Adjournment and 13 on another occasion. I want to make it clear that Senators will have to give notice in writing on the matters they want to have raised or else these will lapse. I stated that before. This evening we will take Senator Norris on item No. 1, the implications of the closure of Dr. Steevens' Hospital.
