Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

When a Minister, for whatever reason, is called away on important business in a European context or otherwise, which can of course happen, and a Minister of State is not available, we in the House are well used to having Ministers other than the line Ministers for particular debates. Despite the fodder crisis and, not least, the importance of the Animal Health and Welfare Bill itself, we are going to have a lengthy break today. In addition, if nobody can be found to discuss the matter, I do not believe it to be an efficient use of the House's time or that of the staff of the Houses of the Oireachtas. We are here to participate in debates. The Order Paper is filled with very good suggestions, from Private Members' Bills to non-Government motions, that could usefully be debated in this House, and, indeed, we have even had debates here without Ministers. While I do not support that, I certainly feel a Minister of State can be found. There should be a Minister of State on stand-by at short notice to hear whatever business the Leader so determines in this House.