Dáil Wednesday 14 November 1979

Cabinet absence during Question Time

Summary

FitzGerald questions whether Question Time can proceed without a Cabinet Minister; the Chair says a quorum suffices, followed by political banter before Question No. 1 is called.

Garrett Fitzgerald Dr. FitzGerald Fine Gael

On a point of order, is there any precedent for Question Time being taken when there is no member of the Cabinet present? Is it in order?

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Joseph Brennan An Ceann Comhairle Fianna Fáil

The Chair has no function in that matter; a quorum is all that is necessary for the Chair.

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Garrett Fitzgerald Dr. FitzGerald Fine Gael

It just seemed to be a bit odd.

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Joseph Brennan An Ceann Comhairle Fianna Fáil

Of course there are Ministers of State here.

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Jim Mitchell Mr. Mitchell Fine Gael

There are a lot of Ministers-in-waiting present.

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Thomas Hussey Mr. Hussey Fianna Fáil

There are on that side of the House too.

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Ruairí Quinn Mr. Quinn Labour Party

I think there is an open air corridor on the other side all right.

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John M. Kelly Mr. Kelly Fine Gael

"The Cruiser" is writing speeches for the Taoiseach.

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Joseph Brennan An Ceann Comhairle Fianna Fáil

Order, please. Question No. 1.

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