asked the Taoiseach if it is proposed to set up a commission of inquiry, as mentioned in his speech to the Dáil in July 11th, 1946, and reported in volume 102, column 749 of the Dáil Debates.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Commission of Inquiry.
It is proposed to move, in a week or two, for the setting up of a joint committee of the Dáil and Seanad to inquire into the matters mentioned by me in the speech referred to by the Deputy. The terms of reference of the committee will probably include the following matters:—
(a) to examine and report on the powers and privileges possessed by each House of the Oireachtas for the protection of itself and its members,
(b) to advise as to what activities of members of each House, whether connected with their Parliamentary duties or otherwise, should be limited, and
(c) to advise as to the procedure which should be adopted to bring to the notice of the House concerned alleged breaches of privilege or of the rules governing members' activities.
Is it seriously contended, Sir, by the Taoiseach that when members of his own Party become involved in questionable activities it is a suitable remedy to set up a commission to instruct the Opposition how to behave themselves?
The Deputy knows that his remarks are altogether beside the point and completely irrelevant. When this question came up, it was a matter of deciding what it was right that a Deputy should do and what it was right that a Deputy should not do.
What called that question up?
It does not matter.
What called that question up?
Order.
It does not matter. The point is that it was opportune to draw attention to the fact that the time had arrived when it was necessary to go into these matters and lay down definite rules concerning them.
No Deputy on this side of the House ever needed instructions as to how to conduct himself.
Can the Taoiseach say whether the membership of this commission will include a majority of members of the Government Party?
I do not know. I take it that it will be set up in the usual way in which these committees are set up.
An opportunity to bring in a white-washing report.
In the usual way.
This is a matter which should have been done a long time ago.
A beautiful smelly red herring.
The question of the privileges and rights of members of the House should have been decided and set out long ago.