Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

What is proposed is a unilateral change to Standing Orders and I do not believe that is the correct process in which to engage. I ask that the Whips meet to agree a comprehensive series of changes to Standing Orders. The Government's programme and indeed the policy documents of most political parties suggested changes in terms of how we conduct our business in this House and in regard to amendment of Standing Orders. If what we seek is a consensual approach in this regard, we should then create a process for so doing. I ask, in the spirit of co-operation, that the Government withdraw this motion. Let us approach this in a consensual manner with all Whips meeting to earnestly discuss reform of how we do our business. The Taoiseach will find us forthcoming in that regard. We have no wish for disruption of the Order of Business. We believe that it is not the Executive who should dictate the pace or nature of Standing Orders of this House but rather all Members of the House and their respective Whips who represent them in discussions.

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