Gerard Craughwell (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I wish to propose an amendment to the Order of Business to the effect that we deal with No. 67, motion 17 before we deal with No. 1, that is, the issue regarding the proposed changes to the one-parent family payment. I heard a Government backbencher on the television last night speak about his disquiet at the proposed change. I know the Labour Party convened a meeting of its parliamentary party this morning to discuss Deputies' disquiet about the changes. There is no doubt that a substantial number of parents will lose significant sums of money as a result of the change and in that context it is of vital importance that this House debates the issue. Today is the last day for such a debate because the change comes into effect tomorrow.

I wrote to the Cathaoirleach some time ago concerning my position as an Independent Senator in this House. I might add that, apart from those on the university panel, I am the only Independent Senator in this House. Historically, I am the first Independent Senator in this House to be elected by way of a by-election. My position when it comes to speaking in this House is that I am always at the end of the list. The Cathaoirleach has been most kind to me, as have most who take the Chair, but I sought membership of the group known as the Independent nominees, which is an oxymoron-----