David Norris (Independent)

I received the usual courteous note from the Cathaoirleach indicating that amendment No. 1a had been ruled out of order on the basis that it was outside the scope of the Bill. It is difficult for me to understand how it is, as it seems to be very much part of the general considerations. The European Defence Agency is the central element of the Bill; therefore, it remains very obscure to me how a vital matter, on which I emphasise I received clear undertakings from the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Martin, remains outside the scope of the Bill. Is the Cathaoirleach in a position to advise me from where this direction came? Of course, I accept the wisdom of his experience and the views of the Attorney General, but I ask whether this view came from the Department, the staff of the House or the Attorney General? As a result of the very chaotic ordering of business today, I only entered the amendment 25 minutes ago; therefore, I do not know how wide or serious the consultation was. This highlights the great defects of railroading legislation through in this astonishing way with such extraordinary speed. I do not believe it allows time to engage in proper professional consultation or receive advice.