I have just ascertained that the Minister has been called to the other House for a vote. The bells are still ringing so that we will have at least ten minutes to wait. I am not sure that we can get the two matters in so I suggest a break until 3.05 p.m. when we will hopefully fit in the two outstanding Commencement matters. Gabh mo leithscéal.
Business of Seanad
We will speak quickly.
I suggest that we suspend until 3.05 p.m.
That gives us 25 minutes to cover the last two matters.
Sitting suspended at 2.55 p.m. and resumed at 3.12 p.m.
Unfortunately, owing to the voting taking place in the Lower House, the Minister who is due to take the next two Commencement matters cannot be here. Therefore, I have to propose a suspension of the sitting until 3.30 p.m.
This is unacceptable. We have Commencement matters which are due to be taken and this should not be happening. We appreciate the problem, but perhaps it might be recorded that we are unhappy that Ministers are not in a position to take the Commencement matters. It shows disregard for the House.
I accept that. It also affects Senator Colm Burke. All I can do is apologies and propose that the sitting be suspended until 3.30 p.m. when we will have the Order of Business.
Sitting suspended at 3.15 p.m. and resumed at 3.30 p.m.