asked the Taoiseach if the Government propose to introduce legislation for the setting up of a press council in the State, so as to ensure proper and high journalistic standards.

The Government have no plans to introduce legislation to set up a press council and no such proposal has been received from the media.

In the absence of any intention by the Government to set up a press council, would the Minister refer the recent article in a magazine concerning rumours about Uachtarán na hÉireann to the Committee on Procedure and Privileges?

I do not want any reference to the President or any discussion on the President in this House. It is out of order.