I seek to raise an issue with an Taoiseach that is becoming increasingly frequent and irritating, namely, the application of the general data protection regulation, GDPR, by a number of utility services and public bodies. When a question is raised by Members of the Oireachtas, all of whom are directly elected by the people and have a mandate from the people, they are challenged as to whether they have permission from the subject in respect of whom the question has been raised to raise the question. If one is objecting to the activities of a particular body or public body, does one have to get permission from the subject in order to raise it in the House or get an answer to the question? This is a serious issue. It is fairly widespread and it is being abused as a means of avoiding questions. When my office attempted to report a burst sewerage pipe in a construction site-----

You are over time.

I know. I will not do it again.

You will not.

I will be better the next time. We were asked if we had permission. From whom could we get permission about a burst sewerage pipe, for God's sake?

The Deputy has raised a serious issue. The Oireachtas should engage with utilities generally and set a clear agreement or framework through which a proper management and understanding of GDPR can be arrived at. It should never be used as a basis to prevent public representatives from raising legitimate issues like burst water pipes, or representing frail and vulnerable constituents who might not be fully aware of the importance of GDPR. When they are told they need to write a letter they look at you as if you have two heads. I get the point the Deputy is making. We need practical common sense in the application of this regulation.