Senator Ó Clochartaigh has proposed an amendment to the Order of Business, "That No. 41, motion 16, be taken before No. 1." Is the amendment being pressed?

I note the Leader's comments but I am concerned that if we do not have this debate soon, the urgency will be missed. I am concerned also that there is a mid-term break coming up. I would expect to see this matter on the schedule for next week, as otherwise it will not be taken for a very long time. I am willing to withdraw the amendment today but if I do not see the matter on the agenda for next week, I will be pushing for it on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

I am not trying to be awkward. The Minister is not available today and he may not be in the country next week. I am not sure of his schedule - he may be travelling - but I will endeavour to have the matter scheduled for debate next week. If not, I will put it on the agenda for discussion when the House resumes.

The Senator can liaise with the Leader.

In that case, it will be about a month before we get to it.

The Senator has the prerogative-----

I cannot schedule a debate if the Minister is not available.

I will push it next week.

We can have the debate today without the Minister, if the Senator wishes.

No, I want the Minister to be attend.

I thank Senator Ó Clochartaigh for his understanding. He may table the matter for discussion again next week.

We have a very tight schedule next week but I will expect to see it on the schedule.