We meet to consider the Committee Stage of the Arts Bill, 2002, and the anti-doping convention.
Business of Select Committee.
What time is available to us to discuss the Arts Bill?
We have as long as it requires.
Is there a time restriction on today's session? May we stay all day?
You may if you wish. It is a matter for the committee.
I suggest that we should sit until perhaps six o'clock and resume afterwards because there is no rush.
Perhaps we should deal with the anti-doping convention beforehand.
We have set the order of business. The anti-doping convention must be returned to the Dáil on Tuesday so we must deal with it.
I agree with Deputy Deenihan's suggestion that we adjourn between six and seven o'clock and then return. I have another commitment between six and seven o'clock. It is better for the quality of debate to have a break at some stage.
I suggest that we have a break when we finish the Arts Bill and before we commence the debate on the anti-doping convention. If there is a consensus for a sos between six and seven o'clock, that is fine. There is the possibility of a vote at five o'clock. We will play it by ear.
Can the Chairman clarify that amendments we tabled today can be re-submitted on Report Stage?
Yes, they can be re-submitted on Report Stage.
If we do not table amendments, can we indicate that we intend to do so?
They must be referred to today.
Referred to or on the paper?
Referred to, as I understand it. I welcome the Minister and his officials for the Committee Stage of the Arts Bill, 2002.