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Seanad
‹ Order of Business

Domestic violence debate request

Summary

Senator O’Keeffe supports a debate on domestic violence, while extended interruptions concern references to absent Members and the Chair’s time limits.

I support Senator Ivana Bacik's call regarding the report of the Joint Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality on domestic violence. I have invested time and energy in this area and anything that raises the profile of those who work in this area, the sufferers or the perpetrators is positive, but there is much work to be done. It is something we are only coming to terms with now. If the Leader could find a way to assist that, I would be grateful.

Unfortunately, Senator Denis O'Donovan has left the House, but I remind him regarding the post offices-----

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Paddy Burke An Cathaoirleach Fine Gael

The Senator cannot allude to Members who have left the Chamber.

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Senator Darragh O'Brien mentioned the Labour Party Senators who were not present.

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I was merely pointing out that he is not present to hear what I am about to say.

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Just like Senator Darragh O'Brien.

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Senators are not allowed to do that.

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Paddy Burke An Cathaoirleach Fine Gael

Senator Susan O'Keeffe to continue, without interruption.

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On a point of order, it is normal in these circumstances that the Cathaoirleach asks the Member who does that to withdraw his or her comment.

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Paddy Burke An Cathaoirleach Fine Gael

I did that.

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But the Senator did not listen to the Chair.

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What am I supposed to withdraw?

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Paddy Burke An Cathaoirleach Fine Gael

Members should not allude to colleagues who have left the Chamber.

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The Senator is not supposed to make reference to an absent Member.

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Senator Darragh O'Brien alluded to three Labour Party Senators not being present earlier.

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That related to yesterday's votes.

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The Senator said they were not present here today.

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Four Labour Party Members were absent for votes yesterday.

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Paddy Burke An Cathaoirleach Fine Gael

Senator Susan O'Keeffe to continue, without interruption. Senator Darragh O'Brien should resume his seat.

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David P.B. Norris Senator David Norris Independent

Everybody is entitled to go to the lavatory.

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The Senator is rowdy.

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Paddy Burke An Cathaoirleach Fine Gael

Does Senator Susan O'Keeffe have a question for the Leader?

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I have asked a question. Can I not make a point?

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Paddy Burke An Cathaoirleach Fine Gael

The Senator has asked a question.

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In fairness, most Members speak for three minutes.

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Paddy Burke An Cathaoirleach Fine Gael

The Senator had two minutes and is way over time.

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