Frances Fitzgerald (Fine Gael)

Last week I said we needed a debate on the scheduling of the work of this House for the remainder of the term. I called for a vote on the matter but, unfortunately, it was defeated. Today I shall move an amendment to the Order of Business proposing we have such a discussion. I raise this point because it is extremely important that we ask about the Government's approach to the Seanad.

I wish to raise some issues. Previously there was a commitment that one third of all legislation would be initiated in the Seanad. What are the plans for further legislation? After all, that is our core job in the House and we are doing it today in respect of the Adoption Bill.

I raise the issue of Ministers attending this House and how they deal with amendments and the business of the House. I shall give an example to the Leader and ask him if he is satisfied with the approach highlighted. We have been discussing the Adoption Bill for a number of days and have had detailed discussion on its content, reflecting the significant concerns abroad. However, the Minister of State with responsibility for children and young people, Deputy Barry Andrews, has briefed The Irish Times on the detail of the problems he is encountering with the Vietnamese authorities before briefing this House.