I ask the Minister to lead.

Gabh mo leithscéal. I ask the Minister for a copy of the speech, if that is possible.

I will check with the clerk to see if it is going around. It should be circulated. We can take a second.

I will send a text to make sure it is coming.

I am sorry, Deputy Connolly. It is just not here yet. Will we go ahead?

I do not want to hold the Dáil up but I want to be assured we are getting a copy of the speech.

Yes, I am told we are getting it. It is just not here.

I would be more comfortable if we actually had this statement as it is being delivered.

It is coming to the Chamber now, is it not?

I am told it is coming but it is just not here at this precise moment.

Gabhaim buíochas leis an gCathaoirleach Gníomhach.

I understand Deputy McDonald is not happy to go ahead without a copy of the Minister's statement.

I would prefer to have it in front of me, given the nature of the subject matter.

I am informed by the clerk that there is no provision to stop the debate. We do not know how long it will be before the copies of the statement get here. The debate must conclude at 12 noon. I am in the Deputies' hands.

We are dealing with statements on a 2,000-page report. This is something that has gone on for a very long time. I know the Minister wishes to have the speech circulated. It makes our job of responding very difficult if we do not have the script.

I have read all the reports today but I have not read the 2,000-page report. I know the Minister is under pressure today and I do not wish to personalise this. On top of all the reports, not to have a copy of her speech today is unacceptable from the Department.

I am told that copies of the speech are on the way. I have no problem waiting but it could take 15 or 20 minutes. I am told by the clerk that we do not know how long the wait will be.

I apologise to the House. I am told the copies are on their way but I cannot categorically say they are all photocopied at this time. I apologise. It was remiss of us.

I propose that we go ahead and allow the Minister to speak-----

With the absence of the script noted.

-----noting the absence of the script, copies of which will be circulated as soon as they get here. Is that agreed? Agreed. I invite the Minister to make her opening statement.