Notice to assemble in the Chamber is given by the ringing of the bells, which continue to ring until a quorum is present. The sitting day can only begin with a quorum of Members present.
Opening of sitting
It is desirable that Members should be in their places in the Chamber punctually as the Cathaoirleach does not ordinarily enter the Chamber until a quorum is present. The Cathaoirleach will adjourn the Seanad to the next sitting day if a quorum is not present a quarter of an hour after the time appointed for the sitting.
The Cathaoirleach’s arrival at the Chamber is announced by the Clerk. Members rise in their places and remain standing during the silent 30 seconds of silent reflection and the reading of the prayer.
Quorum
Standing Orders require a quorum of four Senators to start a sitting on days when Commencement Matters are taken first.
Otherwise, at any time from the beginning of the Order of Business onwards, or on days when Commencement Matters are not being taken, a quorum of six Senators is required. Members may call for a quorum at any point during a sitting.
When a quorum is called for, the bells are rung throughout the campus. If sufficient Members do not then go into the Chamber to make up the quorum, the Cathaoirleach must either suspend or adjourn the sitting.
Last Updated: Thu, 5 Dec 2024