Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

This is not agreed. Deputy Ring, our spokesman on social welfare and protection, has brought to my notice the fact that the debate on the amendments mentioned by Deputy Shortall is expected to conclude by 9 p.m. We have always objected to guillotines on Bills but this is a Bill that should be discussed. There will be no objection to the reference to public office holders but a discussion might be necessary in respect of the definition of "couple" in the context of civil partnerships - there has been a degree of agreement on this - as well as work experience placements and the sovereign annuities and associated bonds from the National Treasury Management Agency. With the debate to be concluded at 9 p.m. too little time has been allocated to Report and Final Stages. Accordingly, I object to the proposed guillotine in this case.

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