This is quite a simple Bill. It is the result of the operations of the Transfer of Functions Order. We are now carrying on with a Judicial Commissioner alone. The Government are, therefore, under the necessity of reconstituting the Land Commission, and, this is what this Bill does. In addition to the powers of the former Land Commission, there is also transferred to the new Land Commission, which is proposed to be set up under this Bill, the powers of the Congested Districts Board. I beg to move the First Reading of the Bill.
LAND LAW (COMMISSION) BILL, 1923.—FIRST STAGE.
Question put:—"That leave be given to introduce the Bill."
Agreed.
Bill ordered for Second Reading on Wednesday week, 23rd May.
Are we to take it that the Dáil will meet on Wednesday week? That is Wednesday after Whitsuntide.
The effect of the Order is that next Wednesday week is the earliest date on which the Bill can be taken for Second Reading. If there is no meeting on that day, it will be taken on a subsequent day.
On that question, may I suggest to the Dáil that it should indicate its desire. I have it an open matter absolutely as to whether or not the Dáil should meet during Whitsuntide. Personally, I would prefer that the Dáil would meet, but I leave the matter entirely to the free vote of the Deputies whether they should meet or not.
Perhaps we could deal with the matter on the Motion for the Adjournment, or before we come to the private business.