David Norris (Independent)

When the Minister of State refers to policy, is he talking about a Cabinet decision? If there is to be a delay, there need not be a very detailed discussion. Could this not go back to the members of Cabinet to ask them, because they are making complete asses of themselves? Otherwise, the Seanad is just being treated with contempt. It is hardly worth coming in if, on the most serious issue on the Bill, something like this can happen. Can this not go to Cabinet or is the Cabinet just sticking behind this? I would appreciate it if the Cabinet could be asked.

I understand the Minister of State is taking advice but this is the Oireachtas. This is the Chamber where these kind of amendments are supposed to be made. If the Cabinet had considered this, it is very unlikely it would take this kind of attitude. The Minister of State's party has a very good track record in some areas in this regard, including that of the former Minister, Mr. David Andrews. Will the Minister of State take it back to the Cabinet? They may just tell him to buzz off, as it were, and we will then have to put it to a vote on Report Stage. If he could just mention it at Cabinet and explain we have had a terrible problem in the Seanad and people are really exercised about it — I am sure members of his own side would say the same — he could get a reading of this. I would be very surprised if this was intentional. If it is, it is very cynical.