Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Senators Coffey, O'Toole, Bacik, Norris, Coghlan and Buttimer were anxious to know what legislation will be before the House ahead of the summer recess. I remind colleagues that the details of which Bills and affairs will be discussed in the House are issued on the preceding Thursday. On the first sitting day of each week, I meet the leaders of the various groups as a matter of courtesy and seek their opinion on the speaking times required for spokespersons and other Senators. This is a good and open practice and I am grateful for the help I get from the groups' leaders in ensuring the smooth running of the House. Where Bills are initiated in the Dáil, we must wait for them to be passed in the Lower House before discussing them.

Senator Ormonde and others referred to Seanad reform. We should consider what we have achieved in our lifetimes.