I am scarcely ready to move for leave to introduce this Bill unless it were to be understood that the second reading should not take place for a fortnight. If so long an interval is not desired, then I would propose to leave the matter over, and give notice of the introduction of the Bill for another day.
TUARASGABHAIL I DTAOBH CUR AMACH RITEACH I GCOIR BAILE ATHA CLIATH THEAS. - MINISTERS AND SECRETARIES BILL—FIRST STAGE.
Would it not be better, if the formalities have been completed, that there should be as long a period between the first and second reading as possible?
Very well. Then I shall move for leave to introduce "A Bill for Constituting the Ministers and Departments of State, in Saorstát Eireann, pursuant to the Constitution, and for enabling the appointment of Parliamentary Secretaries, and for purposes incidental thereto."
I do not think it is necessary to enter into a detailed explanation, but it is necessary to put this matter on a satisfactory basis. The Bill, although simple in many of its details, has, nevertheless, imposed a considerable burden on those engaged in its construction by reason of the number and distribution of the various departments and the necessary consideration which must be given in associating Departments in particular Ministries. I do not think it is necessary to say any more in regard to the introduction, and I beg, therefore, to move formally for leave to introduce the Bill.
I beg to second.
Question put and agreed to.
Second reading ordered for Wednesday, October 24th.