Combining export credit questions
The Minister seeks to take several export-credit questions together. Barrett objects that a priority question on export credit insurance is distinct and says combining it could prevent him from asking it; the Chair grants permission, explaining that this is the Minister’s prerogative.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take oral Questions Nos. 10 and 25 and priority Questions Nos, 37, 39 and 41 together.
Comment on this
On a point of order, I sincerely hope, a Cheann Comhairle, that you will not give permission for priority Question No. 37 to be taken in conjunction with Question No. 10. Question No. 37 is an entirely different question. It deals with credit export insurance while Question No. 10 deals with export credit guarantees. We have waited one week——
Comment on this
I would appeal to Deputy Barrett not to waste the remaining precious time available to us. The Chair has no function in this matter. It is a matter for the Minister, and always has been, as to how he will take related questions.
Comment on this
I do not know if the Minister is the very one who came into this House and demanded explanations in regard to this matter.
Comment on this
I will advise the Deputy and the House that in accordance with the Standing Orders of the House I will be going on to priority questions at 3.30.
Comment on this
The Minister has asked your permission to take the questions together and I am asking you not to give him permission.
Comment on this
I am granting permission as the Chair always does. It is a matter of courtesy to a Minister that the Chair does so.
Comment on this
On a point of order, I think this has to be sorted out. I have a priority question down——
Comment on this
The Chair is seeking desperately to deal with your question but it may not be dealt with as a result of your own conduct.
Comment on this
I have put down a priority question but I cannot get it because the Minister is taking my priority question in conjunction with these other questions.