On a point of order, a question I tabled to the Taoiseach asking him to consider appointing a Minister of State for Dáil Reform has been disallowed on the basis that the Taoiseach has no responsibility in this matter. Since the Government are responsible for introducing legislation, who has responsibility in the type of matter in question?
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers.
The Deputy may not discuss the matter now, but if he cares to call to my office later I shall discuss it with him then.
I consider this to be an important matter since the House is badly in need of reform.
I tabled a question to the Taoiseach, but I find that it is listed as No. 166 to the Minister for the Gaeltacht.
The Deputy will have to get used to that trick. It is the old dodge.
Although a question may be directed to the more appropriate Minister, there is collective Government responsibility for the answer.
The decision to hold an inquiry into some Údarás Na Gaeltachta companies was made by the Government and that is why I put the question to the Taoiseach.
That is correct. It is not a matter for the Minister but for the Government.
(Interruptions.)
The question was directed to the more appropriate Minister but the whole Government have responsibility for any reply given.
I should like to record my objection to the way in which the matter is being dealt with.
Is it appropriate for Deputies to ask these kinds of questions before Question Time commences or at the end of Question Time?
It is not appropriate at Question Time, but I can understand some Deputies having views on such matters and I am trying to help them.
I suggest that you are creating a precedent.