asked the Taoiseach if he will define the posts, occupations, employments or professions the holding of which could not reasonably be regarded as interfering, or being incompatible, with the full or proper discharge by him of the duties of his office.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Office of Taoiseach.
The principle involved, which has been stated in this House a number of times, is that which is alluded to in the Deputy's question, namely, that no member of the Government should engage in any activities whatsoever that could reasonably be regarded as interfering, or being incompatible, with the full and proper discharge by him of the duties of his office—for example, acting in a position such as a company directorship carrying remuneration. Any specific question that might arise in a particular case would be considered in the light of this principle.
It would not be practicable to enumerate or to define the posts, occupations, employments or professions the holding of which would be compatible with the full and proper discharge by a member of the Government of the duties of his office.
Could I ask the Taoiseach is it not a fact that the Taoiseach is controlling director of the Irish Press——
The Deputy——
——and as such——
The Deputy will please resume his seat.
——does he not agree that this is incompatible with the duties of his office?
Arising out of the reply——
I have already ruled that question out of order. The Deputy may not raise by way of supplementary question a matter I have ruled out on the main question.
Arising out of the reply, would the Taoiseach state whether or not it was compatible or whether or not it was interfering with the duties of a Minister or Taoiseach to hold, while Taoiseach, the controlling directorship of the Irish Press?
The Deputy knows that I have already ruled that question out of order.
It arises, with all due respect, out of the Taoiseach's reply.
The Deputy will resume his seat.
Surely this is a matter of public interest? The Taoiseach is only a part-time Taoiseach.
That is not true, of course.
Of course, it is true. The Taoiseach is controlling director of the Irish Press.
Order!
Could I ask the Taoiseach does he deny that he is controlling director of this newspaper?
The Deputy will resume his seat.