It is proposed to take Nos. 19, 5 and 20.
Order of Business.
Is it the Taoiseach's intention to make any statement to the House following the revelations last night by Deputy Cluskey about the manner in which Government business is carried on and, in particular, the implications of these revelations for the collective responsibility of the Government, which is mandatory according to the Constitution?
No, I do not intend to make any statement on the remarks made by Deputy Cluskey.
Does the Taoiseach not appreciate that the situation as disclosed by Deputy Cluskey has caused very serious public misgivings? Would he not regard it as his duty as head of this Government to make some explanation or offer some apologia to the House and to the public about this extraordinary state of affairs?
I do not propose to enter into controversy on the subject of the statements made by Deputy Cluskey.
This is not a matter for the Order of Business. It could be arranged between the Whips in accordance with a ruling which has often been made by the Ceann Comhairle.
I accept that. You are suggesting——
It is not a matter for the Chair.
——that the Whips get together about this extraordinary situation where we have a former Minister indicating that this Government conduct their business in the most bizarre fashion. You suggest that it is a matter for the party Whips.
It is not a matter for the Order of Business.
You do not think it is a matter on which the Taoiseach should offer some explanation to the House.
Any statement to be arranged is a matter for the Whips, not a matter for the Order of Business.
With due respect, a Leas-Cheann Comhairle, there is no obligation on the Taoiseach in regard to making statements. I understand he just gives notice to the Chair and does not have to seek anybody's permission.
It is not a matter for the Order of Business. I am sorry.
You will agree that it is a very serious matter. It has disclosed an extraordinary state of affairs.
It is not a matter for the Chair to give an indication one way or the other.
I see. Thank you.
I wish to raise on the Adjournment the very serious situation in St. Mary's national school, Tallaght, where a number of classes have no teachers at present.
I will communicate with the Deputy.
I wish to raise on the Adjournment the continuing impasse in the teachers' pay dispute and the need for the appointment of a mediator to resolve the situation.
I will communicate with the Deputy.