Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)

It appears that the written Whips' message we receive daily is being changed every day. We had it earlier this morning in connection with another issue of importance Deputy Gilmore brought before the House. Each change to the Whips' message on a daily basis is for the convenience of Government not for the convenience of the House. If Ministers want co-operation, particularly in the last few weeks when there may well be a need for legislation to be processed, it will only be forthcoming if it is a two-way street and we know what is going on. There will be no co-operation in facilitating Committee Stage or the completion of the Intoxication Liquor Bill unless and until sufficient time is made available on Committee Stage to allow the detailed aspects of the legislation to be dealt with fully. We owe it to the people.

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