Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I propose an amendment to the Order of Business that No. 15, the Valuation (Amendment) Bill 2013, be taken before No. 1 today.

I join with Senator Sean D. Barrett in welcoming former British Prime Minister, John Major, to Ireland. I agree thoroughly with him that it was a worthwhile account which he gave at Iveagh House last night of his role leading up to the Downing Street Declaration and his work with Albert Reynolds, Dick Spring and others. As he said, there were many players, all of whom played a vital role in knitting the whole together.

May I say to my very good friend, Senator Darragh O'Brien, that we would not want to overstate our role on recommendations in regard to money Bills which are provided for constitutionally as a preserve of the other House in decision making. I say that gently, if I may. Of course, the Deputy had a worthwhile debate yesterday and he will have ample time again today to go through the other Stages.