Niall Ó Brolcháin (Green Party)

As this might be the last Order of Business of this Seanad, although I hope it is not and that we can make it through to Friday, I wish you, a Chathaoirligh, and everybody else who works here, as well as all of my colleagues, well. I hope I can make this speech again on Saturday, but it has been a great privilege to be a Member of the House. It has been a pleasure to work with you, a Chathaoirligh. You have always been fair and generous. I will not mention everybody, but the Clerk of the Seanad, Ms Deirdre Lane, has been very good to me from my first day. As I do not wish to miss anybody, I will not mention every name.

My colleagues, Senators Boyle and Dearey, have spoken about meeting in the interim between the conclusion of the general election and when the next Seanad election takes place. That could be used as a time by Members to reflect on and consider how the Seanad functions. Having served in this House, I believe the Seanad has great value for the people. It is a great institution and we should tread very carefully in considering its abolition. However, major reforms are required in both Houses of the Oireachtas and Senators could use the time available in the interim to lead that debate which would be very useful.

Will the Leader outline exactly what he believes will be the timing arrangements for the sittings on Saturday and Sunday? Many Senators are anxious to debate the finance Bill——