A Cheann Comhairle-----

You are not a leader, Deputy Mac Lochlainn.

It is not something I would condone.

I wish to raise a point of order. Microphones, for the second week in a row-----

You cannot raise a point of order.

Why does the Taoiseach's microphone remain on when he continues to speak for 30 or 40 seconds? For the second week in a row, various leaders have had their microphones turned off.

You are out of order, Deputy. Resume your seat.

I ask that this be clarified.

Resume your seat, Deputy.

Why are microphones being turned off when the Taoiseach's microphone remains on? Why are microphones being turned off?

Please resume your seat. Do not bring the House into disrepute.

Who turned off the microphones?

Please do not bring the House into disrepute.

I asked who turned off the microphones.

In more than five years occupying this Chair, I have never turned off anybody's microphone. I have asked people to abide by the time limits, which are generally ignored. Will you not ignore me and please resume your seat?

That is fair enough. Will the person who is turning off the microphones please stop doing it?

You are out of order, Deputy. Resume your seat. This debate is over.