Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

The proposal contains 12 separate items, including motions, amendments of Standing Orders and even legislation. I agree with my colleagues it is inappropriate to create a lumpen mass of all of these and to ask us to make a decision on whether to proceed without debate. Like many colleagues, I have concerns about a number of these items while I welcome others. This is a poor approach to business and it needs to be addressed.

I refer to the proposed approval of the Official Languages Act 2003 (Section 9) Regulations 2006, which are back from committee where there was a serious debate on the measures involved. This only underscores the importance of addressing what is involved in No. 23 on the Order of Business and attending to the matter in this Chamber. It is inappropriate that this motion and No. 26, the motion on proposed approval by Dáil Éireann of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 (Treatment of Persons in Custody in Garda Síochána Stations) (Amendment) Regulations 2006, are proceeding without debate. They should have been accorded the opportunity of full debate. While serious issues, of which we are all aware, have been mentioned in the House already this morning the reality is that this motion relates to the extension of time without address of the provisions for the protection of people in custody. This also has implications for members of the Garda as it fails to reflect on the importance of introducing video interviewing. Such protections are in the interests of every one of us as members of society and citizens.

There are issues relating to the regional fisheries boards and the postponement of elections and, again, many voices have expressed concern in this regard. This is most objectionable. I believe the Tánaiste recognises this. He should intervene with the Chief Whip. It is not acceptable to cram all of these measures together on our last day in the House to steam roll them through. As others have said, there were instances in the past session when there was insufficient business to be attended to. This should not happen again. I am opposed to the approach taken to all of these measures this morning.

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