Standing Orders amendment
Senator Norris maintains that the Standing Orders changes deserve historical and substantive debate, while the Leader rejects his amendment and suggests another issue be raised as a Commencement matter.
We obtained legal advice on them and I am not sure anyone could disagree with their contents.
Comment on this
I do not say that, but there is an historical context in which the matter could be placed. The Deputy Leader referred to a High Court case.
Comment on this
It was Howlin v. Morris. The new Standing Orders are straightforward and simply give effect to the constitutional imperative under Article 15.10. Therefore, I cannot accept the amendment proposed to the Order of Business.
The Senator also referred to the axing of the RTE programme "Gloria" on Lyric FM. This matter was raised by our eminent colleague Professor David McConnell. I agree that it is one of concern. Perhaps the Senator might raise it as a Commencement matter.