asked the Minister for the Environment if he is aware of public concern at the decisions and operation of Dún Laoghaire Borough Corporation's Planning Department; and if he will authorise an investigation into this matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dún Laoghaire Planning Department.
26.
I am not aware of any such public concern.
With a certain degree of regret — and I say this advisedly — I am so aware. I realise that I speak within the privilege of this House but in view of my expressed knowledge in this matter, I would ask the Minister formally to undertake an investigation into it.
If it is brought to my attention I will have it investigated. Apart from what appeared in an article in Hibernia I am not aware of the matter to which the Deputy refers.
Would the Minister not agree that since the foundation of the State we have been blessed with public servants whose integrity and loyalty are unquestionable and that any suggestion raised by way of parliamentary question to the contrary warrants immediate response? Is the Minister not prepared to accept my formally bringing to his notice the concern in this matter, concern which, even if unfounded, must be investigated and clarified? I am speaking as a member of the Irish Planning Institute. I want the Minister to indicate verbally, rather than by nodding his head, that the matter will be investigated.
I was not aware of any concern in this regard and the only reference to it that I have come across up to now has been in a article in Hibernia. If, arising from the Deputy's question, I consider that the matter needs investigation I shall have it investigated.
Question No. 27.
I am not totally familiar with parliamentary language. Is the Minister saying "yes" or "no"?
I am not saying either.
What is he being paid for? He should do his job.
We must move on to the next question.
I have indicated the concern in respect of this matter.
I have allowed four supplementaries on the question.
I am saying as a public representative that the matter I have raised is a cause for concern, yet the Minister says he is still not aware of this concern.
I am not responsible for the Minister's reply.
I should not like to be responsible for his reply either. Is he prepared to accept my word on this matter and to have it investigated?
I am calling Question No. 27.
Will the Minister answer my question?
I have answered the question. There are ways and means——
The only way Opposition Deputies can raise anything in this House is by way of question.
I have called the next question.
I do not wish to get into a dispute with the Chair. This Minister is saying he is not so aware. What is my function in this House if I cannot bring matters to his attention?
The Deputy has brought the matter to the Minister's attention. I have told the Deputy that I am not responsible for the replies.
On a point of order, will the Minister give an answer — yes or no?
That is not a point of order. I have called Question No. 27.
This is ridiculous. We might as well be in Muppetland.