I move:
That, notwithstanding anything in Standing Orders, the Order of Business be taken immediately after Leaders' Questions today.
Business of Dáil: Motion
Is that agreed?
It is not agreed. Why are Independents being excluded once again from the debate on the economy? This is a simple question for the Government and Opposition parties. They have been talking about Dáil reform in the House for the past 20 years, yet democratically elected Independent Members are not allowed to speak on a major financial crisis in this State. It is appalling, disgraceful and unacceptable.
After Leaders' Questions, I will proceed to the Order of Business, which may be more appropriate for considering the matter raised by the Deputy.
It is very important that people wake up, smell the coffee and recognise the reality that democratically elected Members are not allowed to contribute. In recent opinion polls, Independents comprise the fourth highest grouping. This is very important. If one is a democrat, one listens to the voices of all the people.
We hear the sentiments.
Question put and agreed to.