Rejected Question and Deputy Stagg’s Suspension
Stagg protested that his question to the Environment Minister was rejected as argumentative despite a similar question being accepted; the Chair ordered his suspension after repeated disorder. Spring sought referral of the inconsistency to the Committee on Procedure and Privileges, but the Chair said it could not be taken up then.
Not now, Deputy. Perhaps I will hear you another time. We are embarking on priority questions.
Comment on this
My point of order has to do with questions particularly. I tabled a question to the Minister for the Environment but your office refused it on the basis that it contained argument. However, a similar question on the Order Paper with the exact same content has been allowed by you today.
Comment on this
The Deputy was guilty of gross disorder this morning. He is repeating this disorder now. I must ask him to resume his seat or leave the House.
Comment on this
——that it contained argument. However, a similar question with the exact same content has been allowed by you——
Comment on this
Deputy Stagg, I must insist that you leave the House; otherwise I shall have to have you named.
Comment on this
On a point of order, Deputy Stagg has not been named. I imagine the stenographer would have difficulty in recording what has been said as Deputy Stagg has not been named.
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May I appeal to you, at this stage, a Cheann Comhairle, to reconsider this very reasonable case——
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Deputy Howlin, resume your seat. This kind of obstruction will not be tolerated by the Chair. I have asked that the motion be moved.
Comment on this
I accept the decision of the House but I protest against your decision, a Cheann Comhairle.
Comment on this
On a point of order, I will try to be very orderly, but could I ask you, Sir, given the inconsistency in the refusal to accept Deputy Stagg's question and Question No. 41 on today's Order Paper——
Comment on this
If Deputy Spring or any other Deputy feels the ruling of the Chair is wrong, there is a procedure laid down for dealing with the matter. It may not be challenged now.
Comment on this
I am not challenging anything. I am merely asking that this matter be discussed at the Committee on Procedure and Privileges because it is very serious.