Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

I support what was said by a number of colleagues about the need for a broadly based debate on older people. I have raised this matter on several occasions in the past seven or eight years and have suggested the holding of a referendum to enshrine the rights of older people in the Constitution. We will be having such a referendum in relation to children. We should also consider a constitutional amendment to protect the rights of older people.

Senator Byrne raised the proposal to take No. 1 on the Order Paper without debate. I am concerned when any motion goes through without the debate. When I was in Opposition I always felt motions should not be passed without debate and I must be consistent on this occasion. I am not sure why it is necessary to deal with this item in this way. I would be happier if we had some degree of debate on it. I know the Leader is constrained by ministerial timetables and responsibilities. However, could we proceed with other business and give the Leader an opportunity to arrange time for even a minimal debate on this matter later in the afternoon?