Before coming to the Order of Business I propose to deal with a number of notices under Standing Order 31 dealing with two different topics. I propose to deal with these topics separately and I will call on Deputies in the order in which they submitted their notices to my office. In regard to the first topic I received notice from Deputies Quinn and Jim Higgins. I call first on Deputy Quinn to state his matter.
Request to move Adjournment of Dáil under Standing Order 31.
In accordance with the terms of Standing Order 31 I wish to give notice of my intention on the Order of Business today to seek to move the Adjournment of the Dáil to discuss the following specific and important matter of public interest requiring truly urgent attention: the need for the Government to seek a settlement of the dispute with taxi drivers to bring to an end all vehicle blockades at Dublin Airport and elsewhere and to ensure the free movement of all our citizens.
(Mayo): I seek the Adjournment of the Dáil under Standing Order 31 to debate the following urgent matter: the ongoing transport paralysis in Dublin and other parts of the country arising from the protests by taxi drivers and the suspension of all mainline rail services for the second successive day, with the prospect of a three day rail strike next week.
Having considered the matters fully I do not consider them to be contemplated by Standing Order 31, therefore, I cannot grant leave to move the motion.
What is more urgent?
Do you listen to the radio, a Cheann Comhairle?
I seek the Adjournment of Dáil Éireann under Standing Order 31 to discuss the following matter of urgent and important public business: the deepening deadlock in the industrial dispute which will close 600 secondary schools for a further three days next week causing serious disruption to the study schedule for students sitting junior and leaving certificate examinations.
Having considered the matter fully I do not consider it to be contemplated by Standing Order 31, therefore, I cannot grant leave to move the motion.
Is anything urgent?