We have a gap until 2 p.m. and I have raised this issue previously. This is crippling the Seanad but there now seems to be a willingness on the part of the Chief Whip to provide a Minister of State or a Minister in future, unless there is an emergency. I ask the Acting Leader to talk to the Government and the Chief Whip to see if it can be resolved.
Business of Seanad
I understand it will take an agreement with the Business Committee. If the Chief Whip relieves herself of a Minister who has a vote at that time there will need to be co-operation with regard to pairings. I will speak to the Leader about it.
It is unfortunate that we have a gap of an hour and three quarters because of the new voting system in the Dáil.
No one would disagree with the Cathaoirleach on that point.
Sitting suspended at 12.20 p.m. and resumed at 2 p.m.