Rory O'Hanlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Ceann Comhairle)

The Deputy should allow me to continue. The second issue is in respect of the ruling cited by the Deputy, namely, that it is not for the Chair or the House to decide whether a Bill is in conflict with the Constitution. That is correct and is the case. Only the courts may determine such matters, as stated in other relevant rulings. However, of itself this does not require the Chair to rule on the Government amendment on Second Stage. The amendment puts forward reasons and opinion as to why the Bill should be postponed. There is no procedural reason to oblige the Chair to rule on the amendment. It would be inappropriate for the Chair to so do.

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