Mary Butler (Waterford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputies very much. The Government, and me as Chief Whip, believe the best way to address changes to Standing Orders is within the Committee on Standing Orders and Dáil Reform. This process should be respected. A meeting of the committee will take place this evening. It is imperative that the Dáil can function and that Oireachtas committees can be established as soon as possible. I am sure we will have a robust session later.

In response to Deputy Boyd Barrett's question, the Department of Defence has prioritised one Bill for publication and one Bill for drafting. The Defence (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill is prioritised for publication and drafting of the general scheme is ongoing. The Bill will amend the Defence Acts to reform the existing provision concerning the dispatch of members of the Defence Forces for services outside the State. I reiterate that it is a priority for publication and drafting of the general scheme is ongoing at the moment.

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