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

It is not agreed. We have an issue with the motion regarding the sittings and business of the Dáil in budget week. I understand that, as a result of the Business Committee's deliberations, there will be no Order of Business next Wednesday or Thursday. I understand that is included in the proposition. We opposed that proposal at the Business Committee. The Order of Business is an important platform for Members, particularly those from the larger parliamentary parties, and only takes about 30 minutes each day. I do not see the necessity of eliminating it in budget week. I have no difficulty in agreeing to give as much time as Members want to contribute on the budget. However, I do not understand why the Order of Business has to be suppressed next Wednesday and Thursday. As a matter of routine, the Topical Issue debate should also continue but I understand some compromise has been effected on that. I ask that the House reconsider this matter. The Order of Business should be standard in sitting weeks of the House. I do not consider the budget to be a reason to eliminate it, particularly on the Wednesday and Thursday.

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