We all know that the printing strike in Dublin has started and the reports of the debates will, I understand, not be printed. In these circumstances would it be possible to arrange for Deputies to get a typescript copy of the speeches so that if they wish they can have them published in the local newspapers where there is no strike?
Production of Official Reports.
Every effort will be made to facilitate Deputies. The House will understand the difficulty of making a definite promise at the moment.
It would only mean putting in an extra carbon.
There is the question of the approach to the general business of the House. No matter what the difficulties in the printing trade are, I take it that special arrangements will be made by a typescript copy or in some other way to see that, in so far as the records of the debates are to some extent necessary for the proper carrying on of the work of the House, there will be available a full record of the debates in the House from day to day.
I think it would be useful if the Committee on Procedure and Privileges were to meet and consider the problem.
Perhaps it would be advisable for them to meet some time to-day during the sitting.
The matter was mentioned at a meeting of the Committee on Procedure and Privileges yesterday and it was decided that every effort will be made to continue the record without any break.
Would it be possible to make an announcement to the House before we rise this afternoon as to what arrangements are being made?
I will endeavour to arrange for a meeting of the Committee and they can deal with the matter.