Before we resume on the Estimate for the Department of Education, would the Taoiseach be in a position to say when he proposes to give time for the discussion of Deputy S. Dunne's motion, a copy of which, I understand, has been given to him today?
CIE Lockout. - Request to Move Adjournment of Dáil under Standing Order No. 29.
For my part, I can hardly think of anything which would be less useful in this complicated situation than a political debate at this stage. Let me say, however, that if, as the situation develops, the responsible leaders of the Labour Party convince me that a Dáil debate would help the restoration of a normal situation with regard to transport services, then I will consider the question of making Dáil time available, but certainly not in the context of a censure motion on the Ceann Comhairle.
Would the Taoiseach not agree that the reasons Deputy Dunne put forward this morning for an adjournment debate were reasonable?
No. I do not have to decide this. The Ceann Comhairle decided in accordance with Standing Orders. He was not concerned with the merits of the proposition put forward by Deputy Dunne. He was concerned with interpreting Standing Orders. If there is to be a debate on this question, when I believe such a debate could be helpful, I will consider it, but certainly not in the irrelevent context of a censure motion on the Ceann Comhairle.
Surely the Taoiseach will agree that it is the intention of the Labour Party to be helpful in the debate they requested of the Ceann Comhairle this morning? I do not know whether the Taoiseach means it or not, but the inference is that anything that may be said or has been done by the Labour Party cannot do good.
I implied nothing of the sort. I am not convinced a debate at this time would be helpful. I am convinced of the contrary. If, however, a situation should develop in which the leaders of the Labour Party, after due consideration, think a debate here would be helpful, I shall consider that if they can convince me that it is so, but a debate at this stage in the context of a censure motion on the Ceann Comhairle would be completely irrelevant.
This motion was put down after careful consideration.
I do not think so.
Nevertheless it is so.