Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

I am concerned by the issues raised by my colleagues, Senators Cummins and O'Toole. With regard to the Central Bank Reform Bill, would it not be better to use the time more judiciously, with a gap between Second and Remaining Stages? A sos would allow Members to table amendments for Committee Stage. It seems the Leader is seeking to kaleidoscope the whole issue from 7.30 p.m. without a gap. Senator Cummins has indicated there could be a gap to have it earlier. Why not take Second Stage earlier in the day and then have a break before Committee Stage in order that Members might submit amendments? Perhaps the Leader will respond to this proposal.

I agree with the comments made in respect of the national development plan. There is no way the plan should be dropped. What is proposed constitutes a major retrograde step. If the plan requires amendment or if the timescale relating to it needs to be reordered, this should be done. In the context of the economy, what is proposed seems to be an anti-jobs measure. That is quite disgraceful, particularly in the context of current circumstances. The proposed Tralee bypass is included in the plan. Tralee is a major county town and is being choked by traffic. There are numerous other examples I could offer but I do not wish to delay the Order of Business by referring to them all. The news that emerged this morning is shocking and the House should use its influence to have the national development plan amended and reordered in the way I have outlined.