Before I begin, I note the Ceann Comhairle's commitment to adhere strictly to the rules of the House in the making of these statements. Those rules are a disgrace.

Perhaps the Deputy might take up that matter with the Committee on Procedure and Privileges.

There are 14 Independent Deputies, comprising a group the same size as that which contains the Sinn Féin Members. However, the 14 Independent Deputies are not recognised in the House and not asked to offer-----

That is a matter for the Committee on Procedure and Privileges.

Those on the Independent benches are paid their salaries like everyone else.

When a sizeable proportion of those on the Government benches are gone, we will still be here.

This is not democracy.

If Deputy Thomas Pringle wishes to change the rules, he may do so through the Committee on Procedure and Privileges. He should proceed to ask a question.

If this is someone's idea of democracy, it is a disgrace.

We have asked on numerous occasions that the rules be changed. It seems, however, that those in government will not recognise the mandate given to Members on this side of the House.

Exactly.

They will soon do so.