First, this is an extraordinary step. It is not consequent on new politics; it is consequent on the worst of old politics. This House deserves a full explanation as to why it has taken so long for the Seanad Committee on Procedure and Privileges to be constituted. That is an essential step before the Seanad Committee on Selection is able to do its business in nominating Members of the Seanad to joint committees of these Houses.

We are within two days of going into the summer recess, yet we have still not had a single joint committee meeting, nor will we be able to constitute same before Thursday. That is the reality behind this proposition. This House deserves a full explanation as to why that situation presents. Almost six months after the general election, we still do not have a working committee system in these Houses.

The Deputy's point is very well made. The motion provides the opportunity for the select committees to undertake the work that needs to be undertaken in the absence, should that continue, of the nominees of the Seanad.

It does.

However, this House cannot impose its will in any way upon the Members of the Seanad. Members of the other House must make their own decisions in respect of the people whom they will nominate to serve on these particular committees. It is neither appropriate nor possible for us to engage in a debate on that particular matter, notwithstanding the validity of the Deputy's point that it is not acceptable that the committees continue not to be fully populated.

I appreciate that the Ceann Comhairle is accepting the validity of the point, and the protest, that I am making because I think it is a valid point to make.

Yes, and we will communicate that to our colleagues.

Respect is the critical word.

Yes.

It not only behoves voices in the Seanad to explain this. It also requires those party leaders who have an insight into why this situation has been allowed to develop as it has to take the opportunity to explain to Members of this House why it has been allowed to get to this absolutely outrageous situation.

Deputy Ó Caoláin's point is made. Are the proposals for dealing with Wednesday's business agreed to? Agreed. Are the proposals for dealing with Thursday's business agreed to? Agreed.

On the Order of Business, I already have ten Members offering. There will be one minute and one question per Member, starting with Deputy Micheál Martin.