It is proposed to take the business as set out on to-day's Order Paper in the following order: Items 4, 7, 6 and 8.
Order of Business.
Before we proceed with the business as ordered, in view of the public uneasiness that exists and the anxiety amongst the workers and shareholders connected with the Great Northern Railway, is the Taoiseach in a position to make any statement concerning this morning's talks?
The Chair did not receive any notification in that connection.
The answer is "No".
Will the Taoiseach consider making a statement in the House before he gives any report to the Press?
The Deputy should have notified the Chair of his intention to raise this matter.
I suggest it would be advisable for the Taoiseach to make a statement in the House before any statement is given to the Press.
It is usual for a Deputy who wishes to raise a matter to give notice to the Chair.
I give notice now that a statement on a matter of such grave importance should be made first in the House so that Deputies will have an opportunity of discussing it.
To what statement is the Deputy referring?
A statement about the position of the Great Northern Railway. There is grave anxiety in regard to this matter. There should be some statement as to the outcome of the talks this morning.
The leader of youth should be told the story.
My point is that the House should be the first to be informed about these things.