I seek the direction of the Chair with regard to the Social Welfare Bill.
Business of Seanad
We have not yet reached the Social Welfare Bill.
This is important. We did not know on the Order of Business that, effectively, any amendment to section 5 would not, I understand, be discussed, even though section 5 was not voted on because all Stages were voted on. I am looking for clarification. Will we be able to vote on section 5 of the Social Welfare Bill on Report Stage?
The Senator's amendment is out of order.
It is not a question of the amendments. I am not trying to pose a difficulty. I am just asking a question.
The Senator's amendment has been ruled out of order.
That is not what I am asking. While I disagree with some of your rulings on the amendments, we will discuss that issue on the Social Welfare Bill, which is fine. What I am asking is in regard to section 5, the respite care grant section. The Cathaoirleach is suggesting this section cannot be discussed on Report Stage. Is that correct?
That is correct.
On what basis?
The amendment is out of order.
We did not vote on that section. I consider this crucially important. Not only did we have yesterday a deliberate filibuster by the Minister and Government Senators, we now have a situation-----
(Interruptions).
This is very important.
It is not relevant.
It is completely relevant.
We are discussing No. 4.
The Cathaoirleach is telling me that section 5 of the Bill in regard to the cut jto the respite care grant cannot even be discussed on Report Stage-----
That point is not relevant.
Will the Cathaoirleach clarify the matter? Is it true?
I have clarified it.
What is the position?
The position is that the Senator's amendment has been ruled out of order.
Can section 5 be voted on at Report Stage?
No, it cannot. No section is-----
You are not even allowing it to be discussed.
For the benefit of the House, no section is voted on on Report Stage.
It is outrageous.
No section is voted on on Report Stage.
We are calling for the House to be adjourned in order that the Leaders and Whips can get together and discuss the matter.
We are moving to item No. 1.
Excuse me. If we are not going to be allowed to vote on this section, we should not be wasting time on the Bill.
Will the Senator, please, resume his seat?
This is outrageous.
In relation to which part of the Order of Business is Senator Darragh O'Brien addressing the House?
(Interruptions).
The Senator must resume his seat.