Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

I have no objection to these amendments. However, the Leas-Cheann Comhairle will be aware that I have just now, upon sitting down to proceed with Report Stage, been handed a letter by a member of the Oireachtas staff from the Office of the Ceann Comhairle. This methodology of dealing with important legislation is absolutely outrageous. This is the first sight or indication I have had of a ruling made by the Ceann Comhairle's office. It is of such importance that I request the indulgence of the Leas-Cheann Comhairle to convey the letter's contents. It states:

Dear Deputy Ó Caoláin, I regret to inform you that amendments Nos. 9, 11, 13, 14 , 15 and 18, tabled by you for Report Stage of the above Bill, the Nurses and Midwives Bill 2010, must be ruled out of order because they involve a potential charge on the Revenue. Amendments Nos. 20 and 21 must also be ruled out of order as they do not arise out of committee proceedings.

This is an absolutely outrageous proposition. Indeed it is absolutely arguable that the ruling is incorrect because what I am seeking to establish by this series of amendments is the right to critical representation in regard to the midwifery profession. The ruling is totally unacceptable. There is no engagement, no consultation; it is arbitrary and presented without means of redress. That is an absolutely abhorrent way of doing business in this House. It is important that people whose particular role will be affected by this legislation - their work and the service they provide - know what has happened here. I strongly object to this and will contest it in regard to the relevant amendments as the opportunity presents.

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