Feargal Quinn (Independent)

It has been most interesting to hear Senators MacSharry, Walsh and Harris speak with a positive attitude on action that can be taken. We will have a debate tomorrow on the economy and I am delighted it is happening. I thank the Leader for organising it.

I support the words of Senators Norris and Coghlan who asked whether we must limit the Order of Business as a number of Senators wishing to speak will not get in each time. I suggest we have such a debate. I do not like the thought of item No. 1 being taken without debate because it should be debated. The most valuable, vibrant, interesting part of the day in the Seanad is very often the Order of Business. By all means, let us limit the length of time we have to speak to one and a half minutes, but let us make sure we will all have the chance to speak. We should debate the issue today.

I raise one other matter. In spite of all the challenges facing us, we should not put the issue of education on a long finger.