There are no amendments down for this stage.
PRIVATE BUSINESS. - THE METHODIST CHURCH IN IRELAND BILL, 1928.—REPORT STAGE.
Question: "That the Bill be considered on Report."
CATHAOIRLEACH
None.
Question put and agreed to.
I move:—
That, in accordance with Standing Order 96 (Private Business), the special leave of the House be given to take the Fifth Stage of the Methodist Church in Ireland Bill, 1928, to-day.
I was Chairman of the Committee which examined this Bill. The position is this: this Church is seeking to obtain complete self-government and independence from the same body in England. Its conference meets on June the 10th. To obtain the powers that are sought under this Bill, exactly the same powers are being sought in a Bill that is before the Parliament of Northern Ireland. The Bill will be law before June the 10th in Northern Ireland, and it is highly desirable that it should be law in the Free State about the same time. Otherwise the position would be that you will have a conference which, as far as Northern Ireland is concerned, is self-governing, while as far as the Free State is concerned it would be in a doubtful position.
I second the motion.
Question put and agreed to.
I move:—"That the Bill be received for final consideration and do now pass."
Question put and agreed to.