In the absence of resignations in writing, the Government today terminated the appointments as Ministers of State of Deputies Michael D'Arcy and Donal Creed. Accordingly, the appointments of Deputy Enda Kenny and Deputy Avril Doyle as Ministers of State take effect from today's date. I regret that I informed the House on Thursday last that the two Deputies had resigned.

I wish to ask a question.

I shall allow one question from Deputy Haughey.

I deplore the fact that these important matters are being dealt with unilaterally and by way of announcement. That is in breach of the traditions and precedents of this House.

I have said that I am allowing Deputy Haughey to ask a question.

What about Deputy Haughey refusing in 1970 to resign when requested to do so by Mr. Lynch?

In view of the untrue version the Taoiseach gave on television of the removal or otherwise of Deputy Barry Desmond from the Department of Health and in view also of his admission here today that he told the Dáil an untruth on Thursday last, will he now consider his own position?

Hear, hear.

I simply wish to rebut these allegations.

The Taoiseach told the House an untruth.