I thank the Chair for that clarification. That means we have, in fact, the opportunity to reject this outrageous proposal, which is totally undemocratic. In case I run out of time, I would first like to propose an amendment to have the debate end at 5.15 p.m., to be concluded on another day.

Is the Senator proposing an alternative amendment? We have had one for 5 p.m.? Is the Senator now proposing 5.15 p.m.?

But of course. I would have thought that was obvious to the meanest intellect.

Well, I am sorry. If the Senator is crossing the floor and confabbing with the other Senator who made a proposal, I would think he is agreeing with him.

Senator Norris should withdraw that remark. It is unbecoming.

I certainly will not.

The Senator should not be reflecting on the Chair.

Let me get to the grist of the matter because there is something serious here. I believe we are in circumstances that are grotesquely unconstitutional because the business of this House is apparently being run by a person who is not a Member of this House but who is an Independent Minister in the Government. It is completely inappropriate for a person from the other House to be dictating to this House the manner in which it should conduct its business.

Supposition.

It is not supposition; it is direct knowledge that has been confirmed.

By whom?

The Senator would be very surprised if he knew.

Order, please.

I am proposing the amendment because we are doing a very good job in carefully perusing the Bill. When it gets through eventually, it will have been thoroughly examined and ratified. That is my very strong feeling. We are in circumstances in which a Minister is attempting to act unconstitutionally.

On a completely different note, I would like to pay tribute to the late, great musician Mícheál Ó Súilleabháin, whom I believe died yesterday. I had the privilege of having been shown around the world music centre in the University of Limerick. It is wonderful what Mr. Ó Súilleabháin has done there, melding traditions, ideas and artistry from all over the world. He was taught by the late Seán Ó Riada. One can see that influence in his work. I refer in particular to the kind of repetitive, percussive, staccato elements that echo the bodhrán in Irish music. I am afraid we have lost somebody of great significance but he has left behind him a wealth of really remarkable cultural material. We would all want to send our commiserations to his family.

Is the Senator's proposed amendment that No. 3 be adjourned at 5.15 p.m. if not previously concluded?

Yes that it be adjourned sine die.

The Senator cannot propose that. We can only decide on the business as proposed for today by the Leader.

I seek clarification. If I propose to adjourn the item, does it mean that it can be taken up again at 7 p.m.?

No, it will not.

Okay, then it is fine to adjourn it.

Why is the Senator differing from Senator Craughwell's proposal?

Which Senator?

He proposed to adjourn at 5 p.m.

I wanted to be gracious towards the Government and give it that extra 15 minutes that it so desperately needs.

I thank the Senator.

Whose side is the Leas-Chathaoirleach on?

The Chair is totally independent.