We use Google Analytics to see which pages are read and how the site is used, so we know what to improve. This only runs if you accept. See our privacy notice for details.

Dáil

Ceisteanna – Questions. Oral Answers.

On a point of order, will the Ceann Comhairle agree to five minutes being added to Question Time given that we are starting five minutes late which means some of the ordinary questions will not be answered?

Comment on this
Séamus Pattison An Ceann Comhairle Labour Party

It is fixed by Standing Orders that we allow 45 minutes for the Taoiseach's questions. I call Question No. 1.

Comment on this
John Bruton Mr. J. Bruton Fine Gael

The Taoiseach was six minutes late.

Comment on this
Séamus Pattison An Ceann Comhairle Labour Party

We are losing time.

Comment on this

Does the Ceann Comhairle have the discretion to add the extra six minutes?

Comment on this
Séamus Pattison An Ceann Comhairle Labour Party

Not really.

Comment on this

How can you get that discretion?

Comment on this
Séamus Pattison An Ceann Comhairle Labour Party

It is laid down in Standing Orders.

Comment on this
John Bruton Mr. J. Bruton Fine Gael

The key is to get here by 2.30 p.m.

Comment on this

A courteous attitude is the minimum we can expect from the Government.

Comment on this
John Bruton Mr. J. Bruton Fine Gael

The Government does not enter if there is not a quorum and it is the Government parties' job to keep a quorum.

Comment on this
Séamus Pattison An Ceann Comhairle Labour Party

The Chair will not enter into the business of a quorum. I call Question No. 1.

Comment on this