I have received notice from Senators Timmy Dooley and Martin Conway that, on the motion for the Commencement of the House today, they propose to raise the following matter: The need for the Minister for Transport to make a statement on the decision by the Irish Coast Guard to stand down the Doolin Coast Guard unit and his Department’s engagement with the Irish Coast Guard in the matter. I have also received notice from Senator Marie Sherlock of the following matter: The need for the Minister for Tourism, Culture, A…

I welcome the Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Deputy Naughton.

I thank the Senator-----

I am aware of that, but-----

As the Senator pointed out, it is a one-person company, which makes the person easily identifiable.

I am aware of that, but it is not here to defend itself.

It might be a matter for a Commencement debate.

I know but, to be fair to everybody, each contribution should not exceed two minutes. I do not disagree. The Senator is entitled to raise the issue, which is important, but I want to be fair to everybody.

I agree, but a Commencement matter is a way of doing so.

I know, but it is a matter for a Commencement debate. The Senator is over time. He has raised this before and-----

Absolutely, but the Senator needs to use the two minutes-----

But the Senator can table a Commencement matter.

There is the possibility of a Commencement matter and other ways in which this can be raised. The committee can also be used. I have done it myself regarding the Coast Guard service. The committee has had hearings on it that lasted five hours, but we do not have five hours here.

Senator-----

I am not preventing the Senator from talking; I am just trying to be fair to everybody. Everyone has two minutes.

I give a bit of latitude, but there is taking a mile when given an inch.

I ask the Senator to submit a Commencement matter or raise it with the transport committee. He can bring the matter up here as long as he can do so within two minutes, or three minutes if the Senator is allowed to lead off tomorrow.

I call Senator Malcolm Byrne.

I ask the Senator to please try. At least make an effort.

Gabhaim buíochas leis na Seanadóirí. I now call on the Leader to respond on the Order of Business.