Peter Barry
Question:4 Mr. Barry asked the Taoiseach the number of derogations from implementing EC laws Ireland have sought and received during each of the last five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Derogations from EC Laws.
No such derogations were sought or received in so far as the Department of the Taoiseach, and the bodies under its control, in particular the Central Statistics Office, are concerned. I understand that many similar questions have been put to various Ministers and the necessary answers provided.
May I ask why the Taoiseach is taking this approach to this question? It seems to be a very simple matter to list the derogations that have been sought. It would be perfectly within the competence and the compass of the Taoiseach's office — they might even get a little help from the Tánaiste's office if they seek it. Why has the Taoiseach taken this approach to the discussion? Would he care to comment on the fact that motor insurance is an area where a derogation was looked for and got and where it has redounded greatly to the disadvantage of the Irish people? Could the Taoiseach indicate whether he intends to direct that this kind of nonsense is not perpetrated again?
It is perfectly appropriate under normal procedures that each Department would answer the detailed questions about its normal remit. If we opened up a debate at Question Time on each area we would be here for some considerable time. The detailed questions for a Minister should be put to that Minister. If the Deputy goes to the trouble of getting answers from the different Ministers to Deputy Barry's question, he will find all the information he requires.
Do I take it that the Minister of State, on behalf of the Taoiseach, is renouncing the role of programme manager-in-chief for the Government?
Let us get to Question No. 5, please.