I understand that you, Sir, have disallowed for the second week in a row a Private Notice Question I tabled in relation to Nicky Kelly, who is on hunger strike, on the basis that it was not urgent.

I have ruled that the question does not comply with the criteria laid down for Private Notice Questions. The reason for this has been conveyed to the Deputy. I cannot allow a discussion on that ruling here. The Deputy will have to find another way to raise it.

I am not asking for a discussion but for guidance. At what stage does a hunger strike become urgent under the criteria of Private Notice Questions? Does the health and the life of a hunger striker have to be at risk before it is considered urgent?

The Deputy is being a little disorderly. It is not the business of the Chair to give directions as to when something will be in order.

It would seem the question is too embarrassing to be answered and that is the reason why it has not been.