Protection for absent Members
Senator MacSharry raises a procedural complaint seeking protection when absent Members are criticised and an opportunity to record his attendance; the Chair rejects the point of order.
On a point of order, I understand it is the tradition in this House for the Chair to intervene if an attack is made on an individual who is not present in the Chamber.
Comment on this
It would be reasonable to allow me to confirm my attendance in the House for many debates.
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Having been corrected on this issue many times in the past when I criticised Members who were not present-----
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-----I expect to be afforded similar protection by the Chair. I ask for an opportunity to point out that I have attended on each day-----
Comment on this
Senator Colm Burke, a newer Member of the House, is well aware that Senators must attend to many duties, including in the House.