I have received notice from Senator O'Toole and Senator Manning regarding a motion on the same topic which they wish to move under Standing Order 29. I have considered the situation and I have to rule it out of order as it is anticipatory of statements on the same subject, which it was agreed on the Order of Business to take at 6.30 p.m. this evening. Does the Senator understand my decision?
Request under Standing Order 29.
I understand. I wrote to you this morning, under Standing Order 29, on a matter of public interest requiring urgent consideration and asked for a debate on that basis. Since then, from contact with your office and that of the Leader, I recognise that progress has been made, which I very much appreciate. Therefore, I will not be pursuing my proposal for a further adjournment of the business. I am happy that the business has been adjusted to deal with this matter from 6.30 p.m. until some time after 8 p.m.
I want to ensure that the Senator understands my ruling. It is anticipatory of statements which will be taken this evening.
I understand perfectly but I wish to underline the point that you have not ruled it out on the basis that it is neither of public interest nor a matter requiring urgent consideration.
Correct.
The point which I want to make is that it is being dealt with.
Does Senator Manning agree with that?
There is no need for repetition.
In relation to the statements which will be taken at 6.30 p.m., would it be possible for the secretariat of the Seanad to try to assist us in this matter? The copies of the Attorney General's report will be in great demand yet this is the only House which has a number of hours to assess and debate it. Perhaps somebody could spirit away 60 copies of it.
I assure Senator Magner that the Chair and the staff will do their best to make it available.