I refer to the Private Notice Question to the Taoiseach asking him if he would convey to the British Government through the British Ambassador to Ireland, the Irish Government's and the Dáil's concern over the proposal to make an announcement tonight making the Prevention of Terrorism Act permanent and requesting postponement of the announcement until discussions have taken place between the Governments. I regret, a Cheann Comhairle, that you sought to disallow that on the basis that a debate will be taking place in the House tomorrow. The debate taking place in the House tomorrow is of no interest in regard to the subject matter of this question because it was asking that something be done about postponing the announcement to be made tonight. I must say I cannot understand your ruling.

I am sorry if the Deputy feels aggrieved. I have conveyed my ruling to the Deputy and he has to accept it for the time being in any event.

A Cheann Comhairle, do you not accept the point I am making? I want the Government to do something today in relation to an announcement being made in the House of Commons tonight. Therefore, the debate tomorrow is no use to me in that regard.

My views have been conveyed to the Deputy. If he requires further elucidation my office is at his disposal. I have nothing further to add to it now.

Perhaps I am not making myself clear. My Private Notice Question requires the Government to do something today about an announcement to be made in the House of Commons.

That was taken into account.

You said you could not allow the question because of the debate tomorrow. There does not seem to be a logical reason for your refusal.

There are, in fact, good and cogent reasons for it if the Deputy will consult my office.

I would be grateful——