Before announcing the Order of Business I am sure all Senators will join with me in welcoming the publication today of A New Framework for Agreement. We all hope it will prove to be just that, and will be seen as something which does not threaten and can be a framework within which all parties can seek to work out our problems. On foot of the publication of this document I propose that we have a lengthy debate on its contents. We can do so tomorrow or next Wednesday; my preference would be for next Wednesday so that we can reflect on the document but I will be guided by the views of other groups.
Today's Order of Business is Item 1 until 6 p.m. and Item 8, motion No. 7, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Item 8, motion No. 7, has been put down in the spirit of requests made by many Opposition Senators, including Senator Quinn and Senator Mooney, that this House be the first to have a discussion on votes for emigrants. It is not the final word on the subject; this motion is on the Order of Business to elicit the views of Members of the House. If there are any constructive proposals they will be taken on board.