Public sitting

A public sitting is the plenary stage of parliamentary work, distinct from committee proceedings. It follows an official order of business and may include general debate, examination of clauses and amendments, questions and votes. Proceedings are recorded and, except in exceptional circumstances, open and broadcast.

MPs debate a bill clause by clause in the chamber during an afternoon public sitting.

A public sitting is a plenary meeting, not every meeting held within the Assembly.

Takes place in plenary

Follows the official order of business

Proceedings are publicly recorded