It is proposed to continue item No. 1, the Turf Development Bill, 1988, from the conclusion of the Order of Business until 2 p.m. or earlier. At 2 p.m. we propose to take item No. 97. Indeed, in regard to that motion, before the debate begins I wish to propose, by agreement, that notwithstanding anything in Standing Orders, the following arrangements shall apply to that motion: that the speech of the various Senators shall not exceed 15 minutes.
Order of Business.
On the Order of Business — I will stay with the point — yesterday I asked the Leader of the House if he would arrange an immediate and urgent debate on the question of the radio proposals of the Minister for Communications. The Leader of the House replied that the matter would be discussed when legislation is introduced here shortly. That misses the point I am making. The point I am making is that the legislation proposed is so far-reaching and so important that it is essential that this House should have an opportunity to debate it before the details of the proposed legislation are actually published. There is disquiet in all parties — the Progressive Democrats, Fianna Fáil, on this side of the House and, indeed, the Labour Party——
An Leas-Chathaoirleach
That matter does not arise on the Order of Business.
There is disquiet and we would appreciate a full debate. We would be willing to meet next Tuesday to debate this matter of major importance.
I would like to agree with Senator Manning. There is an important question of principle involved. The transfer of money from State funds——
An Leas-Chathaoirleach
I have told Senator Manning that that matter does not arise on the Order of Business.
——to private capital enterprise is important and should be discussed in the House. I support the Senator on that. I would like to ask the Leader of the House can he give some information about item No. 4, the Interpretation (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill, 1989. He said he would look into this. I am not pressing very hard but perhaps he could even privately let me know and advise me of how this matter can be advanced. The final matter is item No. 7, Irish Nationality and Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 1989. Again, I would like some indication of the Government's response because I am coming under considerable pressure from several constituents who are directly and personally involved and interested in this matter.
In regard to the queries raised by Senator Manning, yesterday I outlined the position as I understood it to be. I have to say that there are no plans for a full debate prior to the legislation coming before us, which I expect will be with us within three weeks or thereabouts.
In regard to Senator Norris, I examined the position of item No. 4 and there are no proposals to take that legislation at this time. The same applies to item No. 7. I will make further inquiries. I did not investigate it as much perhaps as I should have and I will come back on that one.
Order of Business agreed to.