Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

I ask all Members to make an effort to spend more time in the House and engage proactively with its business, which is what we are here to do. I hope this will start from today and that more Members will be in the Chamber to address legislation and statements. When Ministers are invited to attend the House for debates which have been requested by Members from all sides, it is not acceptable that only a handful are present. This is not a productive way to use our time.

I have had a number of requests and I take on board what has been said by the Leader of the Opposition regarding a debate on the fiscal compact, the treaty and the Opposition Private Members' motion next week on the subject of rural schools. I take on board the contributions of all other Senators who have spoken on the Order of Business.