Caít Keane (Fine Gael)

I am pleased to be able to speak immediately after Senator Norris given his use of the phrase "face-saving political exercise". I wish to address again the matter of the Order of Business. Senators are charged with effecting change in the Seanad and while I would like to be part of such change, it is not reflected on the Order of Business. This aspect of our business should be changed for the simple reason that the Seanad's purpose is to scrutinise legislation. I joined this House for that reason, not to repeat what I read in the newspapers or heard on "Morning Ireland". If an urgent matter is referred to on "Morning Ireland", I will raise it in the Seanad but it would be preferable if the Order of Business were reduced to 30 minutes to discuss urgent matters arising. Given that urgent matters will arise, Senators should have a facility to raise them.

Bills should not be guillotined.