Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Chief Whip indicated this morning that there were 25 Bills planned for this session. She referred to the possibility that there might not be sufficient time in which to deal with all of that legislation. My understanding is that only five hours are allocated for Bills each week. Given the 25 Bills emanating from the Government and all of the legislation that has already been referred to various committees, some of which should be coming back to be dealt with in plenary session, it is clear that this is not workable. There is no basis on which one can process this legislation adequately or effectively in the five hours allocated during the week or each day. I ask that all parties meet fairly urgently to resolve this issue to secure more time for what the House has ordained to do, that is, pass legislation that is urgently required to improve people's quality of life. We have but one member on the Business Committee and the reform committee. That critical issue needs to be addressed, as was pointed out earlier.

Can I also ask-----

See this speech in context