Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

Before I announce the Order of Business, on my own behalf and that of the House, I extend deepest sympathy to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Martin, and his wife, Mary, on the tragic loss of their daughter. It is a very sad time for them and their family.

The Order of Business is No. 1, statements on the current overcrowding levels in Irish prisons, to be taken at the conclusion of the Order of Business and conclude not later than 2 p.m., if not previously concluded, on which spokespersons may speak for 12 minutes and all other Senators for eight minutes and Senators may share time, by agreement of the House, with the Minister to be called upon ten minutes before the conclusion of the debate for closing comments and to take questions from leaders or spokespersons; No. 2, Seanad Electoral (Panel Members) (Amendment) Bill 2008 - Second Stage (resumed), to be taken at the conclusion of No. 1 but not before 3.15 p.m. and conclude not later than 5 p.m., if not previously concluded, on which spokespersons may speak for eight minutes and all other Senators for five minutes and Senators may share time, by agreement of the House, with the Minister to be called upon to reply ten minutes before the conclusion of the debate; and No. 32, Private Members' business, motion No. 17 on Seanad reform, to be taken at 5 p.m. and conclude not later than 7 p.m. The business of the House will be interrupted between 2 p.m. and 3.15 p.m.