Before we adjourn I wish to make two announcements. We will commence tomorrow at 11.30 a.m. It has been suggested that we hold the morning and afternoon sessions here in the Chamber but that we hold the evening meeting in the committee room. Is that agreed?
Business of Select Committee.
What is the reason for that?
I would prefer to stay here.
Reference has been made several times this evening to costs and so forth. One must consider the extra staff, lighting and the translation people. Such requirements do not apply in the committee room. I believe the matter has been discussed with some of the members.
I have no objection.
The air quality in this room is far superior to that of a committee room, especially for a very long sitting.
It will be for the evening session only.
I am not aware of any extra staff required over and above what is required of a normal committee meeting, at which there are three members of the committee, three staff at the table and three staff in the committee box. There are no more than that here. In fact there are fewer people. The number of staff accompanying the Minister is a matter for him. What extra cost is involved? Is it simply heating and lighting?
I have been advised on the matter to this effect.
I do not accept that. That is rubbish. That is what is wrong with Government accounting in this country.
As an auditor the Deputy will be aware that she cannot make such a statement without empirical evidence.
There are two people here along with three ushers. There would be the same number of people in the other building.
We can discuss the matter in the morning. I will provide the details for the Deputy.
I do not understand why it is inconsistent with the dignity of the House that I cannot sit here and have officials to assist me.
I agree.
It would assist me considerably in assisting the House. It is not a case of a House in committee but of the committee in the House.
I cannot answer that question but I have raised the matter with the authorities and that is the decision made.
Will the Chairman convey the views of the committee? It is not simply a matter of the Minister's view but that of the committee. I appear to have all-party support on this matter.
Both sides of the House have agreed that there is no objection. The Deputy has raised a question and we will provide a detailed reply tomorrow. We can discuss the matter then.
The select committee adjourned at 10 p.m. until 11.30 a.m. on Wednesday, 28 October 2009.