On a point of order, I must protest most vigorously. Unfortunately, a Cheann Comhairle, my priority question has now, according to the ruling you have just made, been disallowed. Indeed, I was precluded from having any input into the previous question which was coupled with a question I have on the Order Paper.

Deputy Pat O'Malley knows full well the rules of this House.

I also note that this is happening on a very regular basis, particularly to members of my party.

We tried to warn you of this.

It is in the hands of the Ceann Comhairle to orchestrate the business of the House——

It is not in the hands of the Ceann Comhairle to change the Standing Orders of this House.

——so as to ensure that everybody gets a fair crack of the whip.

It is indeed Deputy.

I am well aware that my question——

Deputy O'Malley, I will not take insolence of this kind from you.

I do not regard this as insolence.

Resume your seat, Deputy, please.

I do not regard it as insolence——

Please, Deputy.

——to protest at my being precluded from asking a question which I put down on a matter of priority.

I now ask Deputy O'Malley to leave the House.

I am insisting on making my protest.

Deputy O'Malley, resume your seat or leave the House.

I insist on making my protest.

Deputy O'Malley, leave the House.

Do you want me to leave the House?

I do.

It is a farce——

The Chair has consistently brought to the notice of Members at Priority Time the necessity of making progress.

This system is a complete and utter farce and it works against my party continuously.

The Deputy's party agreed to the rules. We were the only party who voted against them.

The Chair can do no more in the matter and will not accept abuse from any Member. Leave the House, Deputy, please.

Deputy P. O'Malley withdrew from the Chamber.

Question No. 8.