Marc MacSharry (Sligo-Leitrim, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I agree with the two Deputies who have outlined why we should sit. Some commentary in recent days in the media and elsewhere has been regrettable. In some way, Parliament is being seen as an optional extra, rather than the constitutional imperative it is. I sympathise with your efforts, a Cheann Comhairle, and those of staff of the House in seeking to find a remedy which honours the requirement for the safety of staff, Members and all others associated. We also need to give good example. However, there is a need as the Deputies have said.

Notwithstanding that, I believe that 16 April is not too far away. On the basis that all groups, including those of the Deputies who have just spoken, are engaged - or hopefully are engaged - in forming a Government, which I hope can be done within a fortnight, perhaps on 16 April we will have a vote for Taoiseach at this location, in the Convention Centre or another location as suggested. On that basis, we will support the Dáil adjourning until 16 April, with the caveat that all of us have a responsibility. I appeal to your good offices, a Cheann Comhairle, to ensure we embrace the constitutional imperative that Parliament is. It is most certainly not an optional extra, despite the views of some people, be they officials, media or otherwise, who feel it in some way is.

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