Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

By the end of this session there will have been three Friday sittings within the month of December. Due to the fact that the model used in Dáil Éireann was so successful, I thought that, on a trial basis, we would adopt it and commence business at 10.30 a.m. on Fridays with the relevant Minister in place from the outset. Last Friday's sitting was extremely successful. It was fabulous to be present as a Member of Seanad Éireann to witness how the affairs of the House were conducted.

I fully respect and support the entitlement of Members to bring matters to the attention of the House on the Order of Business. I suggest the current arrangements for Friday sittings remain in place and that the leaders of the various groups come together in the near future to review the position and discover how we might progress. Nothing is set in stone. I have an open mind on the matter.