Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

Senator Brian Hayes raised the matter of the 77 year old woman in Limerick. In that context the wider question concerns the unsuitable use of Garda time, resources and prison spaces. The Senator intends to introduce a Private Members' Bill shortly and we will facilitate debate on that issue.

Senator Brian Hayes stated that a glut of legislation is expected and asked that we have an orderly use of time, which we will. Senator O'Toole also raised this matter. On the wider issue evoked by that request, since the occasion approximately 18 months ago when we had a long contentious Bill in the House, we have sought not to have all Stages of a Bill taken together. We do not approve of that and do not deal with legislation that way. There is now time between Second and Committee Stages. It is proper that we provide time to debate legislation. I do not call the expected legislation a glut — that sounds excessive coming up to Christmas — but there will be plenty of legislation. We will use our time in an orderly way to debate legislation.

I extend the same assurance to Senator O'Toole. There will be no rushing of Bills. He said he did not object to sitting on Friday in principle but he would object if the purpose was simply to be seen to mop up Dáil business. However, that is the way it is, we get Bills from the Dáil. Some legislation is initiated in this House and we will discuss such a Bill this week.