We have had a very thorough discussion, which Senators might bear in mind as we move forward.

Amendments Nos. 1, 2 and 9 are related and may be discussed together by agreement. Is that agreed? Agreed.

I join in Senator Keogan's remarks about those who passed away over the past year, in particular due to Covid. Among those who passed away was the Senator's dear mum, who was a highly respected member of our community in Cavan. I join in wishing a happy Christmas to the Cathaoirleach, his staff, Mr. Groves, Ms Doody, the excellent staff of the Seanad Office, who could not be more helpful or co-operative, all of my colleagues in the Seanad, who have been co-operative with me in my role as Leas-Chathaoirleach, the us…

I move: That the Ninth Report of the Committee of Selection be laid before Seanad Éireann.

I warmly congratulate Senators Higgins and Ruane and the other signatories on bringing forward the motion. It is a worthy motion and discussion. I do not think there is any fundamental disagreement on the principles behind it. Rather, it is a question of how these things are achieved. I welcome the motion. No matter what position Members take on it, it is important that it has been brought to the floor of the House. I also welcome my colleague, friend and near neighbour, the Minister of State, Deputy English. I wil…

In consultation with the Minister of State and as he has explained, considering the very balanced and reasonable-----

I am not going to make a speech. It is just to say that given the very balanced and reasonable debate in the House, the sincere opinions held and the unity of purpose in the House on the issue, although we have moved the amendment we are not pressing it.

At 10.30 a.m. tomorrow.

I have received notice from Senator John McGahon that, on the motion of the Commencement of the House today, he proposes to raise the following matter: The need for the Minister for Transport to make a statement on the provision of public electric vehicle, EV, charge points for people who do not have access to private driveways. I have also received notice from Senator Niall Ó Donnghaile of the following matter: The need for the Minister for Foreign Affairs to make a statement on the implications of the UK National…

Before I call my colleague and friend, Senator McGahon, I welcome the Minister of State at the Department of Health, Deputy Mary Butler, to the House. She is always refreshingly honest and open with us and a good conversation ensues.

I thank Senator Wall for his impeccable timing. I remind Senators that we now have two-minute slots.

Amendment No. 2 in the name of Senator Higgins is out of order as it involves a potential charge on the Revenue and it is in conflict with the principle of the Bill.

Does the Senator wish to make a comment before I put the recommendation?

We are getting very pithy in our speeches. Is the Senator pressing the recommendation?

Recommendations Nos. 7 and 13 are related and may be discussed together by agreement.

Is the Senator pressing the recommendation?

Is the section agreed? Does the Minister wish to come in?

The Minister, without interruption.

Will colleagues bear in mind that any further discussion will thwart the number of recommendations that we can get through in the limited time? It is in their interest to give-----

Recommendations Nos. 16 and 17 have been ruled out of order as they are not relevant to the subject matter.