Seanad Éireann debate -
Thursday, 23 Jan 1992

Vol. 131 No. 2

Business of Seanad.

An Cathaoirleach

I have notice from Senator Cosgrave that, on the motion for the Adjournment of the House today, he proposes to raise the following matter:

The need for the Minister for the Marine to outline his plans for the future of shipping services at Dún Laoghaire, in view of the port's importance to the Dún Laoghaire area.

I also received notice from Senator Norris of the following matter:

The need for the Minister for the Environment to accede to the expressed wishes of Seanad Éireann and Dublin Corporation by making a substantial cash grant from lottery funding for the rebuilding of the Hirschfeld Centre in Dublin.

I regard the matters raised by Senators Cosgrave and Norris as suitable for discussion on the Adjournment. I have selected Senator Cosgrave's matter and it will be taken at the conclusion of business. Senator Norris may give notice on another day of the matter he wishes to raise.

Mr. Manning

A moment ago on a point of order I sought to have Standing Orders suspended. I was not fully aware, and no other Opposition group were aware, that the order taken yesterday meant that the Order of Business for today was settled and that, in effect, there would be no Order of Business today. It was my intention and, indeed, the intention of others on the Opposition side that we would today take item 44 or 45. Yesterday an attempt was made to take item 45 on the Order Paper. I propose that Standing Orders be suspended to enable the House to take items Nos. 44 and 45 on the Order Paper.

Mrs. Doyle

I second Senator Manning's proposal. I welcome Senator Fallon to the office of Cathaoirleach.

An Cathaoirleach

I very much regret that I cannot allow such a motion to be moved as I see no necessity for so doing.

Mr. Manning

Is that an opinion or a ruling? In other words, can it be challenged?

An Cathaoirleach

It is a ruling. I am advised my ruling cannot be challenged on such matters.

Mr. Manning

I certainly would not like to begin this new reign of peace and light with a direct confrontation with the Chair but I think this is a matter of serious and immediate concern and the House needs to discuss it. It may well be that events taking place outside the House may well make it a redundant motion before too long, but in the absence of information——

An Cathaoirleach

I regret I have to cut Senator Manning short, but I have ruled and that remains my position.

Mr. Manning

May I begin the new regime by saying I accept the Chair's ruling. I do so with great reluctance but I will be bound by it.

Dr. Upton

I am disappointed at the Chair's ruling. Senators will be aware that a similar motion was accepted yesterday evening, was voted on and defeated by 30 to 23 votes. I regret the Chair has ruled that Senator Manning's motion cannot be taken this afternoon. It is absolutely essential that this matter be discussed.

An Cathaoirleach

Before I call the acting Leader, I would like to inform the House of the recent death of Senator Howard's wife. I extend the sympathy of the House to Senator Howard.

Members rose in their places.

An Cathaoirleach

Before we deal with the matter on the Adjournment, will the acting Leader of the House say when it is proposed to sit again.

Mr. Wright

It is proposed to sit at 12 noon on Thursday, 30 January 1992.