We use Google Analytics to see which pages are read and how the site is used, so we know what to improve. This only runs if you accept. See our privacy notice for details.

Dáil
‹ Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Emigration Statistics.

Newspaper report and committee reporting

Summary

O’Kennedy protested that a newspaper had distorted his remarks and asked about reporting of House committee proceedings. The Chair ruled the matter out of order and advised him to raise it through the appropriate channels.

I should like the Minister to comment on that. I protest against a distortion which appeared in the Irish Independent yesterday.

Comment on this
Thomas J. Fitzpatrick An Ceann Comhairle Fine Gael

Deputy O'Kennedy raised this matter in an orderly way with my office. It was pointed out that if everything that appeared in daily papers, or a fraction of it, was raised here for the purpose of contradicting it we would have nothing but chaos. It is not in order.

Comment on this

In following up this matter——

Comment on this
Thomas J. Fitzpatrick An Ceann Comhairle Fine Gael

The Deputy will have to take it up with the newspaper concerned.

Comment on this

Any newspaper which prints "the Government should train Ireland's unemployed for emigration" as my opinion——

Comment on this
Thomas J. Fitzpatrick An Ceann Comhairle Fine Gael

The Deputy is not in order.

Comment on this

It is a complete distortion. I did not say that but rather the direct opposite.

Comment on this
Thomas J. Fitzpatrick An Ceann Comhairle Fine Gael

The Deputy is being disorderly.

Comment on this

Order is important but distortion that gives rise to cynicism is important also. There is a committee of the House——

Comment on this
Thomas J. Fitzpatrick An Ceann Comhairle Fine Gael

I can understand the Deputy feeling strongly about this but he should not abuse the House.

Comment on this

It was a committee of the House which was fully reported.

Comment on this
Thomas J. Fitzpatrick An Ceann Comhairle Fine Gael

In the past, other Deputies tried to raise matters such as what is being raised now. They were refused permission to do so and it would be most unfair to them if I make an exception now.

Comment on this

Will the Chair take up the reporting of committees of the House with the Committee on Procedure and Privileges?

Comment on this
Thomas J. Fitzpatrick An Ceann Comhairle Fine Gael

I suggest to the Deputy that the Whip of his party take the matter up with the Committee on Procedure and Privileges.

Comment on this