We have a quorum but there are a number of problems about which I have consulted the spokespersons for the Fianna Fáil and Progressive Democrats parties and the Minister of State. A number of amendments were submitted to the Bills Office and, because of pressure of time, it was not possible to have them circulated before the meeting. When that happened on a previous occasion I decided, in fairness to the public, the Minister, his officials and the committee, it would be unreasonable to deal with amendments without providing an opportunity to have them studied.
I have reorganised the business of the committee for next week. We will take the salmon task force at 11 a.m. and we will proceed with this Bill from 2.30 p.m. I am sorry for the inconvenience. I found it necessary to make this decision because it is the most reasonable way to deal with it. Members can submit amendments on Report Stage but they should be discussed on Committee Stage. Accordingly, I suggest this meeting be adjourned until 2.30 p.m. next Wednesday.
The Select Committee adjourned at 2.40 p.m. until 2.30 p.m. on Wednesday, 19 March 1997.