I wish to clarify that we have no difficulty with Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív taking Question No. 1 on behalf of Deputy Barry Cowen.

It has already been ruled that it is not possible to do that under the new Standing Orders. There is no provision for Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív to take the question. I had to refuse Deputy Shane Ross recently on the same issue.

May I read the reply?

It can be circulated. I am sorry, but that is what is stated in Standing Orders.

I am sorry to interrupt, a Cheann Comhairle, but do you mean the question cannot be taken at all?

It cannot be taken at all.

Therefore, there will be no answer.

No.

It will be answered in writing.

The question was to ask the Minister-----

No, we are not taking the question.

And I cannot read the answer.

It cannot be taken.

Is Question Time cancelled?

No, that question cannot be taken.