Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

We tried to work out Deputy Stagg's motion. I wish to say to the Whips that while I have agreed to this a few times, it is very unpopular with Members from all parties. They say to me it upsets things they have arranged to do at 8.30 p.m. In fairness to Members of the House, if we are going to do that, we should have the vote at an earlier stage. The last day I agreed to this on the floor of the House, Members from practically every party came to me afterwards to say it put them out. It is unfair to Members but we will agree it today and work it out. I ask the Whips to arrange to have the vote at an earlier stage if they intend doing this in future so that we will still finish at 8.30 p.m. because people have arranged meetings and are involved in other activities that are affected by being in the House.

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