On the Order of Business, as you are aware, Sir, I tabled a private question this morning in regard to a statement which appeared in to-day's Press concerning the issue of export licences by the Department of Industry and Commerce. This question was ruled out of order by you, Sir, and while I am accepting the ruling of the Chair I should like very much to ask the Minister for Industry and Commerce, in view of the doubts cast on the decorum and integrity of his Department's staff——
Issue of Export Licences—Press Statement.
I have already ruled out a matter that I thought wholly improper to bring before this House because it is, in my understanding, sub judice and I cannot allow a matter which is still before the courts to be brought before this House.
I do not intend to bring it before the House. All I want is that, in view of the doubts cast on the integrity of the officials of his Department the Minister should, in the public interest, have the Department legally represented at any further sittings of this inquiry.
Is the Ceann Comhairle permitting that question?
I have got no notice of that question and I cannot allow a matter to be raised ad hoc.
Seeing that it has been raised, and that it might be thought something was being concealed, will the Ceann Comhairle permit me to make a statement on it?
If the Minister thinks it is desirable.
I have seen the report in the newspapers referred to and I have given instructions for the matter to be fully investigated.