I move:—
That, notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in Standing Orders 79 (1) and 85, the Committee Stage and Report Stage of the Rates on Agricultural Land (Relief) Bill, 1934, be taken to-day.
Public Business. - Suspension of Standing Orders.
I second.
I object to this motion being taken to-day. I should like to know from you, Sir, if it is possible to have a section inserted in the Bill now, in order to relieve a certain class of farmers from rates, following up the case that I have made.
That is a very difficult question to spring on me suddenly, and I should like to have time to consider it. At the first glance I think it would be quite possible to do so, but do not take that as binding. I do not see why people should not be given a specific allowance on the basis of putting one particular thing against another. If an amendment were before me, I should be able to consider it more fully.
In view of your ruling, Sir, I ask Senator Robinson to withdraw his motion, in order to give me an opportunity of putting in an amendment so that the House could discuss the question. I do not see why we should rush this Bill through to-day. When the present Government Party were in opposition they always objected to the rushing of Bills through all stages, or even after going through the Committee Stage. They wanted Bills to go through the usual course. Now they are fairly anxious to rush Bills through, despite the protests they made when another Government was in power.
The only point is that the money has been already allocated, and it would be impossible to re-allocate it. I do not know what could be done, even if an amendment were passed, in view of the fact that the money has been allocated to every county council, in accordance with the provisions of this Bill. I suggest to Senator Counihan that he will have an opportunity in two or three months' time of dealing with this matter, when another Bill comes before the House. The matter has been dealt with for the current year, and there are only two months to go.
If Senator Counihan withdraw his opposition now, would the Minister undertake that no allocation will be made for next year until another Bill has been introduced, and that the Government will not follow precedent?
A Bill will be brought in as soon as possible. I am almost certain that it will be brought in earlier than was the case this year. I can go so far as to promise that.
I think Senator Counihan might withdraw his opposition under the circumstances.
In view of the Minister's promise to give an opportunity to discuss an amendment, then I will withdraw my opposition.
Question put and agreed to.