Ivor Callely (Independent)

I thank the Cathaoirleach very much. I am happy to have the opportunity to be called. What progress, if any, has been made in regard to my suggestion to the Leader to discuss and reach agreement with other group leaders to improve the Order of Business and set aside time in our weekly schedule for important and topical debate? Very often Members call for a Minister to come to the House to discuss a particular issue. We all know that finance and job creation are the two topical issues. I have said before that we should set aside time in our weekly schedule to accommodate such debate. The relevant Minister would be able to attend knowing it was a weekly slot.

I find the procedures and fairness in calling Members on the Order of Business somewhat frustrating. Today I was here from the start of the Order of Business and I noticed people coming into the Chamber after me but being called before me. It is not the first day this week I noticed that. Perhaps there is room for improvement.