Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Darragh O'Brien referred to the International Protection Bill. As he knows, that Bill was to be taken last night or this morning. It could have been taken at approximately 4 a.m. or 5 a.m., which would have been ridiculous. That is why it was rescheduled for today. Committee Stage was always to be taken tomorrow. Therefore, I have no problem taking Second Stage today. The schedule has not changed very much from that communicated to Senators last week. I am certainly going ahead with the legislation as per the Order of Business I announced. Senator Darragh O'Brien also referred to mortgage changes and property tax. He said the relevant legislation was ruled out of order in this House. I do not propose to comment further on that but I am sure the Senator will make the point to the Minister when the Finance Bill comes before the House.

Senator Bacik raised a number of matters to which she referred yesterday in the context of the Criminal Law (Sex Offences) Bill. She also referred to schools admissions policies. I responded in respect of these issues yesterday.

Senator Jillian van Turnhout referred to the appalling findings in the report on rape victims in the Bessborough institutions. The Government has had to face many legacy issues. Obviously, this is another that will have to be dealt with. I agree with the Senator that this is an appalling set of circumstances that will have to be addressed as a matter of urgency.

Senator Sean Barrett proposed an amendment to the Order of Business, that No. 16 be taken before No. 1. Is this to enable him to publish the Bill or is it so the Bill may be taken now?