COP27 debate timing
The Minister said a debate on COP27 made most sense once the Taoiseach and Minister for the Environment had reported back from the summit. He also referred to Aodhán Ó Ríordáin’s earlier procedural point, which was then followed up briefly.
Deputies McDonald and Naughten raised climate action issues with regard to COP27 and so on. It makes sense to have a debate when the Taoiseach and the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Deputy Eamon Ryan, report back to the House having attended COP27. We can have an informed debate when we know the outcomes of COP27. We do not yet know what those outcomes are. I know everyone in the House will wish our delegation well in seeking to ensure there are tangible outcomes. That is my view on bringing that idea to the Business Committee.
The matter raised by Deputy Ó Ríordáin with regard to the Criminal Justice (Incitement to Violence or Hatred and Hate Offences) Bill sounds unusual. The origin of the issue is the scheduling of Committee Stage by the committee. Perhaps there can be some discretion or leeway shown. That is a matter for the Ceann Comhairle and his office to consider. In my experience, it would be unusual to require that Committee Stage amendments be tabled before the commencement of the Second Stage debate, unless it was an urgent matter.
Comment on this
If the offices of the Leas-Cheann Comhairle or Ceann Comhairle could assist in that regard, it would be greatly appreciated.