On a point of order, am I correct in raising a statement made by the Taoiseach on the Order of Business which he might like to correct in the light of the press statement that has been issued by the Minister for Finance? I will read from the "blacks" transcript of this morning's Order of Business and you may wish to adjudicate, Sir. The net point was—

Deputy, I would prefer if you raised this matter at another time. Question Time is limited and this is not appropriate at the start of Question Time.

When we come to budget matters will you allow me to raise this matter? The House was misled by the Taoiseach this morning—

It was not.

—and I thought that, following normal practice, when this was brought to his attention the Taoiseach would, at the earliest possible opportunity, have the courtesy to correct it. As the Taoiseach said, he does not tell lies.

We cannot deal with this matter at this time.

Why not?

Because this is Question Time—

I am asking a question. Would the Taoiseach like to correct the record where he said, "If the budget is to be recast the place to announce it is in the House".

Deputy, you are out of order. You may raise a point of order at some time but not during Question Time. This is not the appropriate time.

When is the best time to ask a question if not at Question Time?

The budget debate will be held later. I call Question No. 1.

I am giving you question number one. When will the Minister for Finance come into the House—

I am taking the Questions from the Order Paper. Ceist a hAon.

I am asking question number one. There is one issue today—

Deputy Quinn, you are being totally disorderly.

I am not. I am being totally in order.

There is a long standing tradition in this House. Question Time is from now until 4.15 p.m.

I am asking a question.

You are not asking a question. Deputy Bruton's is Question No. 1. We are now taking Deputy Bruton's question.

Deputy Quinn's question should be answered first.

My question is: We have a budget—

Deputy Quinn, I ask you to resume your seat while I am on my feet.

I am on my feet.

Deputy Quinn, you are being disorderly. You must show respect for the Chair. The House cannot function if a Member does not show respect for the Chair.

I am showing respect for the people of this country, Sir. I am showing respect for this establishment.

I have called Question No. 1.

When will the Minister for Finance come in—

For the last time, Deputy Quinn, the Chair is on his feet.

I am on my feet too, Sir.

Deputy Quinn, you do not have the right to continue to speak when the Chair is on his feet. There must be respect for the Chair in this House.

I am asking you to defer.

The Chair will not defer. I call Question No. 1. Deputy Quinn, I am asking you, for the last time to resume your seat. Do you intend to resume your seat?

In deference to yourself, Sir, I will resume my seat but I will not let go of this issue.

On a point of order—

I will not take any more points of order. We have wasted too much of Question Time.