I move: "That the Dáil sit later than 8.30, and that the motion for the adjournment be taken not later than 10.30." I would like to know if it would be possible to come to an understanding that the Division would be taken this evening and that I would be allowed to reply at ten o'clock. If there is agreement upon that, I would propose that we should take the Committee Stage of the Bill to-morrow and the remaining stages on Tuesday. Next week brings us very close to Christmas, and Deputies will realise that a little time is necessary in order to allow the Seanad to have this measure under consideration. In view of the fact that the consideration of the Bill has now reached its third day I think that an ample opportunity has been given for its discussion.
LATE SITTING.
I do not think that I, for one, could consent. I must make a protest against anything in the nature of a closure on this question. Only one Deputy from this side of the House—from the second Party in the House, from the point of view of numbers—has so far spoken. If other Deputies take hours in delivering their speeches, we cannot help it, but we have an obvious right to put forward our viewpoints, and as this is a grave constitutional question I think that full and ample time should be allowed to discuss it. Not alone is it a constitutional question, but it is a financial question, and I hold, therefore, that full and ample time must be allowed for its discussion, and I would ask the House not to accept the President's motion for a closure at ten o'clock.
On a point of correction. The Party sitting on these benches has only put up one Deputy to speak on behalf of the Party.
That is their fault.
I did not mention the closure. I asked for agreement.
I want to raise a question in Private Deputies' Time.
That will arise immediately after this.
If there is not agreement as regards ten o'clock, would Deputies agree to a later hour?
Oh, no.
We will sit all night if the President likes.
I am taking the President's motion.
Ordered: "That the Dáil sit later than 8.30 and that the motion for the adjournment be taken not later than 10.30."
I move:—"That the consideration of the Treaty (Confirmation of Amending Agreement) Bill, 1925, be not interrupted to-day at the time fixed for the taking of business of private Teachtai." I understand that my Parliamentary Secretary has seen Deputy Lyons, and that the Deputy has given what I might term a protesting acquiescence to this.
Oh, no. The President must have been instructed in his language by Deputy Connor Hogan. If I get an understanding from the President as to what day he would be prepared to take this I will be satisfied. If this Bill goes through to-morrow night the President will propose that we adjourn for Christmas, and that will end the motion.
I undertake to the Deputy to give very careful and most earnest consideration to his motion, if he will meet me, on this day week. I do not promise him that I will be able to meet him earlier than that, but I do undertake that I will be in a position to meet him on that day.
Before seven o'clock?
Yes.
Then I am satisfied. Motion put and agreed to.