In connection with the matter we were discussing earlier concerning the allocation of time for the Motion under discussion on the Private Members' list, Deputy Sweetman has proposed that, on the assumption that Government business to-day will finish at 5.30 p.m. we should have the Motion for the Adjournment this evening until 10.30 p.m., resuming tomorrow morning, and allow from 1 to 2 p.m. for the Private Members' motion. If that is agreed it is acceptable to the Government and we can deem the order——
Business of Dáil.
I am afraid we cannot consent to that. The proposal is that the Private Members' motion should be dealt with between 1 and 2 p.m. tomorrow, probably the most inconvenient time you could find for it, lunch time. That is not a satisfactory arrangement from our point of view. We are willing to consent to anything that looks reasonable but that does not.
I presume that, from the point of view of Deputy Sweetman and myself, 2 to 3 p.m. would be as acceptable as 1 to 2 p.m.
The original suggestion was that it be from 4 to 5 p.m. but, in fact, when the division on the adjournment debate is taken, unless the Taoiseach is put out of office, the House then adjourns and you cannot then go on to anything else. It was because of that that I consulted the Deputy who was moving this motion.
Could it not be taken from 5 to 6.30 p.m. this evening?
It would not be possible to take it this evening.
Three to four p.m. tomorrow?
That would not be a suitable arrangement. I shall be called upon to conclude the debate at 4 o'clock.
Eleven a.m. to 12 noon?
Say 12 to 1 p.m.
All right.
On the assumption that we finish ordinary business before 5.30 p.m. we adjourn at 10.30 p.m.
We shall cooperate in achieving that aim.
The Private Members' motion will be taken between 12 and 1 p.m. tomorrow?
Yes.
I appreciate the position of the Government but supposing Government business does not end before 5.30 p.m., what will happen?
I suggest we leave that until 5.30 p.m. and have that row then.
That is a hypothetical question. The sooner we get on to the business the better.