Tribunal commentary and order
After Leaders' Questions ended, Members repeatedly sought a ruling on whether it was in order to comment on an ongoing tribunal and the Chair intervened several times. The exchanges were procedural and inconclusive, with the Chair saying the matter would be communicated to leaders.
That concludes Leaders' Questions. I wish to point out to the leaders that we are way over time. Standing Orders provide for a specific amount time to deal with Leaders' Questions and it is extremely disappointing that the leaders continually disregard the order of the House when they speak. I ask them to have regard to the orders of the House.
Comment on this
On a point of order, is it in order for leaders to comment on a tribunal in the middle of the tribunal's proceedings?
Comment on this
Judge Charleton has not reported.
Comment on this
I believe we are precluded from doing so.
Comment on this
The Taoiseach is out of order.
Comment on this
On a point of order, is it our position? We need to know for future reference for other Deputies, otherwise we will all come in every day and start commenting on various pieces of evidence given at tribunals.
Comment on this
People are constantly commenting on commissions and tribunals. I would be very happy if it was all out of order.
Comment on this
I would be very happy if the commissions of investigation and tribunals were all out of order.
Comment on this
They are only out of order for parliamentary questions.
Comment on this
----- and have a bit of a barney. If we are going to conduct the business properly, can I please-----
Comment on this
I might ask to have a ruling from the Chair at some point. We constantly have tribunals and commissions of investigation discussed in the House when they are ongoing. A ruling on that from the Chair would be helpful.
Comment on this
My point is different. My point is-----
Comment on this
On a point of order, we have been warned-----
Comment on this
You know the precedent is we cannot comment-----
Comment on this
You know there is precedent that does not allow Members to comment on evidence to tribunals.