Jim Higgins
Question:1 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Taoiseach the number of meetings of programme managers which have taken place since 1 April 1994; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1227/94]
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Meetings of Programme Managers.
The programme managers have been meeting on a regular basis, approximately once a week, to assist their Ministers in managing and co-ordinating the achievement of the objectives in the Programme for a Partnership Government, 1993-1997.
Was the issue of the presidency of the High Court, which almost brought about the collapse of the Government and caused an unnecessary election, on the agenda or discussed at a meeting of programme managers?
I must remind Deputy Higgins that his question is essentially statistical and policy matters should not therefore arise.
On occasions in the past Members have sought and been given information on the purpose and functioning of programme managers. I have asked whether an issue was discussed at one of their meetings and the Chair has allowed such questions in the past.
The question is clearly statistical. It requests information on the number of meetings held, nothing more.
A Cheann Comhairle——
Deputy Rabbitte, my ruling is quite clear, is it not?
It is, Sir. May I ask the Taoiseach if he considers sufficient meetings of programme managers have taken place to review the efficacy of the system and whether he has plans——
The Deputy is entering the area of policy. Deputy Rabbitte is seeking to circumvent the ruling of the Chair.
No, Sir. The Chair knows I would not do that. Will the Taoiseach indicate if he considers programme managers are meeting sufficiently frequently, if the system is working efficiently and whether he has any plans to introduce changes to it?
The Deputy's question is in the area of policy. The ruling of the Chair should not be questioned.
I would not dare do that. I wish to ask the Taoiseach a statistical question. How much does the system cost in terms of additional public sector pay, including the cost of people seconded from other areas within the public service?
That seems to be a separate question.
It is a separate question and the Deputy should put down a question on it.
Does the Taoiseach not know the answer to the question?
It is separate question.
Does the Taoiseach know the number of hours in a year?
He seems reluctant to answer questions today.
Will the Taoiseach indicate the number of meetings of programme managers to discuss the presidency of the High Court?
The Deputy is bringing in new matter.
None. The filling of that position is a matter for the Government alone.
Under the Constitution it is a matter for the President. The Taoiseach should get his facts right with regard to the Constitution.
I do not need lectures from the Deputy.
If the Taoiseach read the Constitution he would realise that is a matter for the President.
Let us proceed in an orderly fashion.