How about standing up and saying something about the guillotine?

Senator Norris is next.

I can direct that question at Sinn Féin. We have had a very eloquent speech-----

If Senator Norris is directing something, he must direct it through the Chair.

Of course, a Chathaoirligh. Through the Chair, I would say that we had a very lyrical appeal about human rights from Sinn Féin but they are completely silent on the abuse of democracy in this House today by the use of the guillotine on the Judicial Appointments Commission Bill. This is all because of their tawdry little deal with the Government. I have to say Sinn Féin has fallen a long way from the times when, in their mistaken, stupid way, they were at least idealistic. Now they have joined the ranks of the other political parties.

I commend the leader of the Fianna Fáil Senators on what she said. She was 100% right in terms of democracy in this House. I hope she and Fianna Fáil will vote with us to end the guillotine. It is in the great tradition of Fianna Fáil in upholding this Republic and upholding freedom.

Absolutely.

I want to laugh hysterical laughter, like Senator Buttimer, but we do not blame him; we know he is only the messenger boy. We blame Deputy Ross, one of the worst Ministers this country has ever seen. I propose an amendment to the Order of Business that No. 3 should be taken without the guillotine at 5 p.m..

Both proposed amendments to the Order of Business have to be seconded. Senator Black is next.

Follow that.

I will be brief. I second Senator Norris's proposed amendment to the Order of Business. I cannot support the proposal to guillotine the debate on the Judicial Appointments Commission Bill. I feel it is less about the content of any particular Bill and more a point of principle. I am concerned about the Government using the guillotine. I have seen with my own and other legislation how procedural measures can be used to frustrate legislation. In general, I do not think using a guillotine is good practice and I am concerned at seeing it in use again.