Today's business is item No. 2.
Order of Business.
The House this morning may be an indication of things to come, that we are going to a two-party system in Irish politics. It may also be a sign of what is going to happen in the local elections. I certainly hope so.
On the Order of Business, may I ask the Acting Leader of the House if he can tell me whether there are any proposals for item No. 1? It has been on the Order Paper for a long time now. Secondly, with respect to the promise in the Programme for Government that there would be a comprehensive programme for Oireachtas reform by the middle of last year, can he indicate whether the Government have any proposals on this matter?
May I ask the Acting Leader of the House to indicate whether it is intended, as reported, to bring in legislation amending the Broadcasting Act, particularly in light of recent revelations regarding TV3, etc? Would he consider, at some stage, making time available for an up-to-date debate in relation to the whole communications area? Perhaps he could indicate whether this legislation will be coming before the House before the summer recess.
I support Senator Cosgrave in his comments. Those of us who vigorously opposed the Bill when it was going through the Dáil have been vindicated by recent events. I support his call for a discussion on the issue. I would also like to ask the Acting Leader if he can report what the present position is about the proposal of the Government to establish the foreign affairs committee.
In reply to Senator Manning, perhaps between now and the end of the session we might find some time to discuss the Altamont Bill, in agreement with the Whips. As for reforms of the House, it is ongoing situation but we will try to give him the up-to-date situation. When the Leader of the House returns I will ask him to communicate with Senator Manning. Senators Cosgrave and Staunton know there are no plans to have a debate on communications between now and the end of this session. Senator Staunton mentioned a foreign affairs committee. I have nothing further to add to what the Leader said yesterday.
Order of Business agreed to.