asked the Taoiseach the number of formal visits he made during the term of the last Government in order to appraise the President on matters of domestic and international policy as laid down in Article 28.5.2º of the Constitution; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

As I indicated in reply to similar questions in the past, it would not be appropriate to give precise details of such visits.

However, I can assure the Deputy that the duty placed on me by Article 28 of the Constitution is fully and adequately discharged.

Can the Taoiseach confirm, without divulging the actual numbers, whether there is a regular schedule of meetings or does it operate on an ad hoc basis.

Both.

When a meeting is required it is arranged.