An extended Dáil sitting was demanded by the Opposition yesterday, as the Government was criticised for rushing the Garda Síochána Bill through the House. The Bill is due pass all stages tonight.
Labour leader Pat Rabbitte asked why the Taoiseach proposed to adjourn the Dáil on July 1st.
"This is unprecedented in my memory. What possible excuse is there for adjourning this House on July 1st, except that the Taoiseach and his Government want to escape the chamber?"
Taoiseach Bertie Ahern said that there had been a long debate on the Bill.
"The heads of the Bill were published and a consultation process was initiated."
Fine Gael justice spokesman Jim O'Keeffe said that established parliamentary procedures, dating back to the 19th century or before, were in place to enable legislation to be considered properly over different stages.
"Such procedures have been followed as long as we have participated in parliamentary democracy on this island and on our neighbouring island."
