(South Tipperary) asked the Minister for Local Government if he will take steps to obtain information respecting the number of applicants for housing as detailed in a Question of 27th November, 1962.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Housing Applicants.
22.
I do not propose to seek the information in question, as returns showing the number of applicants for housing in any area would not constitute an adequate indication of housing needs.
(South Tipperary): I have no means of getting this information except through the Minister, apart from Tipperary County Council, I am not a member of Waterford County Council or of the urban bodies in Tipperary and Clonmel and this is the only place I can get such information. I cannot see why the Minister cannot furnish me with the information.
Question No. 23.
(South Tipperary): The Minister has not answered.
It is scarcely a question.
(South Tipperary): Why am I not furnished with a simple piece of information?
For the reason I have stated in my reply to the question.
(South Tipperary): That was the Minister's reason, but I may have my reason for wanting to get the information.
Quite, but the Deputy merely asked for my reason and I gave it.
(South Tipperary): I think that is a churlish retort.
Is a Deputy not entitled to get the information asked for in a Question here?
That does not arise on this.
We have to protect the rights of Deputies in this House. I may have a similar Question down next week. I am asking the Ceann Comhairle now is it within the rights of Deputies to get this information?
That is a separate question altogether.
It is quite in order because questions are being asked but they are not being answered.