John Paul Phelan (Fine Gael)

I refer to the ordering of business yesterday. There was an allotted time for the Labour Services (Amendment) Bill 2009 which was put back by one hour and then by a half an hour. None of the spokespersons for the parties, including Senator Ryan, who raised this on behalf of the Labour Party, was informed of any of the changes to the Order of Business which were made on the hoof. It is completely unsatisfactory that the business of the House is ordered in such a fashion. I would like to see it improved and to hear the Leader's ideas on how that might happen.

There was a time when times were detailed when the schedule was announced on a Thursday evening. Members knew when debates would take place and when they were needed in the Chamber. Members are also members of joint committees and have other commitments as Members of the Oireachtas. It would be fitting if we could get a clear layout of the Order of Business from now on.