Before we commence consideration of item No. 65, I would like to clarify for the record my position in relation to it and the earlier motion tabled by Deputy Vincent Brady calling on the Government to withdraw the document Building on Reality. I ruled that Deputy Brady's motion could not be moved as it was clearly in conflict with Standing Order 48. My ruling was in accordance with rulings of my predecessors.
Last Thursday afternoon in the Dáil I indicated that if the Opposition wished to look into the matter and if they came up with something within Standing Orders I would, of course, consider it. On the following day they tabled a motion in the names of 37 Deputies asking the House to rescind the resolution of the Dáil of 18 October approving the national, economic and social plan Building on Reality, and they gave reasons why that should be done. That motion comes within the scope of the special Standing Order relating to the rescission of resolutions, namely, Standing Order 47. I considered it was in order and, of course, I accepted it.
Finally, I wish to make it clear that at no time on Thursday last did I give an undertaking to be in the House at 4.30 p.m. on that day and the record prepared by the Official Reporters bears that our.
A timetable has been agreed for this evening. Between 7 p.m. and 7.30 p.m. Deputy Lenihan will speak; from 7.30 p.m. to 7.40 p.m. Deputy O'Kennedy; 7.40 p.m. to 8.10 p.m. a Government speaker will contribute and from 8.10 p.m. until 8.30 p.m. an Opposition Member will speak. Is that agreed?
