I have been trying in an orderly fashion to ask a supplementary question on Question No. 9 and I was not given the opportunity by the Chair to do so.

Question No. 10 has been answered.

I know the Chair called Question No. 10 but I was standing and endeavouring to ask a question on Question No. 9 which I think is relevant and something that is of interest to the general public. Deputy O'Leary and myself tried to ask supplementary questions. With the permission of the Chair, I should like to ask a supplementary question on Question No. 9.

If the Deputy asked the question instead of that preamble we would have an answer now.

I answered Question No. 10 twice.

I am trying to find out if the outside consultants referred to by the Minister are Irish or if they are from outside the country?

As far as I know they are from outside the country. However, I have not checked the matter and I am not certain.

I think that information needs further probing in this House. Obviously the Chair will not allow further supplementaries. It is significant information that the Irish Government are receiving all of their advice on energy matters from consultants outside the country.

That is not true.

I want to ask a supplementary question on Question No. 10.

I wanted to facilitate Deputy Barry who said I ignored him when he was on his feet attempting to ask a question. I am calling Question No. 11.