David Norris (Independent)

On a point of order, I understand that the Minister of State had to go to the Dáil Chamber for a vote, but that is outrageous. The Dáil is dealing with a Bill upon which there are likely to be a considerable number of votes today and it is not acceptable that we should have to suspend business each time. I understand this has arisen because of a refusal to pair on the part of the Opposition. As far as I am concerned, it is very bad political behaviour for an Opposition to refuse to pair a Minister of State in those circumstances. In that context, I do not propose to agree to any further suspensions of this House and I will call a vote if necessary.

When the Minister of State is in the Dáil casting his vote, we can vote here as well. I am fed up with this kind of nonsense which is causing unnecessary delays. We had rubbish on the Order of Business which delayed the Minister of State's arrival in the House and now we face the prospect of him having to leave the Chamber several times. I find this to be a very impractical and regrettable way of doing business, although I am not blaming the Minister of State for that. I know that he must vote——