Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

First, I associate myself with the Cathaoirleach's words about former Senator Paul Coghlan. He was truly a character and a great friend and he loved this place. Anyone who was here the day he was elected as Leas-Chathaoirleach saw those genuine tears of emotion. He was an emotional type of man, and a great character. He was one of the great people of this House. He was fiercely proud of the Seanad and about its retention on the basis that it would be a meaningful place and network of engagement. He did amazing work in the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly, of which I was a member. While we flew there, he always went by boat and train. He did not like travel. He was always first there. You would arrive at all sorts of places, and the first guy you would meet was Paul Coghlan welcoming you. It did not matter if it was Jersey, London, Scotland or Wales. That was him. He was fiercely committed. I join with the Cathaoirleach in his appropriate words.

I propose an amendment to the Order of Business in respect of No. 2, Criminal Justice (Incitement to Violence or Hatred and Hate Offences) Bill 2022 - Second Stage, to the effect that all Senators should not exceed 12 minutes. The current proposal is that group spokespersons not exceed 12 minutes, and all other Senators not exceed eight minutes. Our proposal is that it be extended to 12 minutes. I hope the Leader can agree to that. I do not think it should be a difficulty.