It is proposed to take business as on the Order Paper, Nos. 1, 2, 3 and 5. It is also proposed to take the remaining Stages of Nos. 2 and 3.
Order of Business.
To what date is the Dáil going to adjourn?
16th February.
February 16th, if we ever come back.
Is the Deputy worrying?
Any guarantee given?
In connection with the proposal to adjourn until 16th February, I want to point out that there are still motions on the Order Paper relating to matters of considerable importance, including Private Deputies' motions, many of which have been there for a very long time. I put it to the Government, having regard to the circumstances, and to the number of motions to be dealt with, as well as the possibility that the Dáil will not resume until 16th February, that the Order Paper will then be clogged with financial business, and that the Government ought to arrange for a meeting for a day or two next month to discuss motions by Private Deputies and to give the House an opportunity of reviewing the position generally at that date.
I think it will be possible to afford time for Private Deputies' business when the Dáil meets. Deputies will appreciate that the amount of Government business done during that week will not be great, in so far as it will consist of the introduction of measures and Supplementary Estimates which cannot be taken on the date they are introduced. I feel sure that if contact is made with Government Whips facilities can be arranged to provide for Private Deputies' business at that time.
May I take it that that will include additional time for Private Deputies' business?
It is impossible to forecast precisely what the Government business will be, but it is reasonable to assume that the amount of Government business during the first week will not be very great, and that it may be possible to meet Private Deputies who have motions on the Order Paper reasonably.