On a point of order, I have often wondered why in the other House the Ceann Comhairle always reads the prayer himself. Do you have any particular objection to reading the prayer?
Business of Seanad.
I have no particular objection, but the Senator is entitled to have the position clarified. At one time in the history of this House there was a holder of this office who was not as fluent in Irish as I am. For that reason the practice to which the Senator referred developed. The Clerk of the Seanad is the person who reads the prayer. If the Committee on Procedure and Privileges wish on the instructions of the Senator to have the matter examined, I will be glad to respond.
I just wondered if the Cathaoirleach of the Seanad was not quite as literate as the Ceann Comhairle of the Dáil. I should like us to be absolutely clear about that.
No. I enjoyed the quality education that you are providing throughout the country.
I understand quite a number of the speeches that are read regularly in this House are written out phonetically because of the reading difficulties you have mentioned.
Senator, you are consistently enjoyable. Please allow me to get on with the business of the House.
I have notice from Senator O'Keeffe that, on the motion for the Adjournment of the House today, he proposes to raise the following matter:
The need for the Minister for Education to confirm if the regional sports complex in Cork is going ahead; and if he will specify a date for the commencement of the project, given the huge demand for such a facility on the western side of Cork city.
I regard the matter raised by Senator O'Keeffe as suitable for discussion on the Adjournment and it will be taken at the conclusion of business.