David Norris (Independent)

I second the amendment to the Order of Business proposed by Senator Darragh O'Brien. It is extraordinary that the gas company is going to install water meters. One can buy electricity from the gas company. Why do we not merge them all into one?

We have been asked for a debate on absenteeism. I glanced around the House. We started ten minutes late. I was the first person in the Chamber this morning and for the majority of the time I have been here there were 12 Members present. That represents a rate of absenteeism of 80%. We should look to ourselves on this, particularly if we wish this House to continue in existence.