On a point of order, a Cheann Comhairle, I tabled five questions——
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers.
Mr. Higgins
I am sorry, Deputy.
Mr. Higgins
——in relation to Carysfort. The matter has been——
That may be so, Deputy. I have conveyed my decision to you.
Mr. Higgins
On what basis, a Cheann Comhairle——
The Chair may not be challenged in this fashion, Deputy.
Mr. Higgins
I am not challenging you, I am merely seeking clarification——
My office will communicate with you, Deputy, or you may communicate with them.
Mr. Higgins
A Cheann Comhairle, you assume that it anticipates the debate.
Deputy Higgins, please resume your seat.
Mr. Higgins
If the questions are not answered in today's debate, will I have permission to re-enter them.
I will look at that very carefully.
May I raise a point of order?
I am sorry, Deputy, no more points of order. I call on the Taoiseach.
A point of order is normal procedure.
I would question that. How can there be points of order on questions as such?
But a point of order may be raised at any time.
I stood to raise a point of order and you have not heard what the point of order is.
It is a tradition in the House that there be no points of order at Question Time.
Where is that written down?
A Cheann Comhairle, I am raising a point of order.
The first question has not been called yet.
Yes, Deputy Gilmore, that is recognised. I accept the point of order. Let us find out whether it is valid.
During the course of Question Time last week in relation to Carysfort the Taoiseach indicated that he would answer any question that was tabled to him. I had several questions tabled today, some of which you ruled out of order — which I accept — and one of which the Taoiseach transferred to the Minister for Finance.
That can be dealt with in many other ways but not now.
Is that in order when the Taoiseach has indicated that he will answer questions?
I call on an Taoiseach to answer Question No. 1.