Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)

Most of us who are dealing with the Bill have been in our offices since early morning to cross-reference the legislation with the green list of amendments, which we received this morning. It is now proposed to consider the Bill until 3.30 p.m. without giving those who are dealing with it an opportunity to leave the Chamber. That is not reasonable. I ask the Chair, who has health and safety responsibilities, to ensure that provision is made for Members to take a 30-minute break, during which we can take advice on issues and have a cup of tea. Some of us have been here since early morning to prepare for the debate because it was not possible to prepare for it further in advance. We did not get the consolidated list of amendments until this morning.

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